Consumers oppose power tariff increase in Jharkhand meeting

In Daltonganj, the Jharkhand State Electricity Regulatory Commission (JSERC) held a public hearing on a proposed electricity tariff hike by JBVNL. The meeting took place at Pt Deen Dayal Upadhyay Smriti Bhavan on Monday. Consumers were strongly against the proposed increase, urging JSERC to keep current rates for both urban and rural users. Many consumers expressed their concerns about the financial impact of a tariff hike. Mukesh Kumar, representing the Bishrampur block, questioned the justification for the increase, noting that electricity in their area is supplied via bamboo poles instead of concrete ones. P K Chawla highlighted that an Eklavya Vidyalaya in Manatu block still lacks a power connection. Safety issues were also raised. Parshuram Ojha pointed out that low-hanging electricity wires in a municipal area pose risks to residents, yet there seems to be little action taken. Consumers linked the proposed increase to the government's recent decision to waive electricity bills for usage up to 200 units. They also voiced concerns over corruption in the electricity department, alleging that bribes are necessary for transformer replacements and new service connections. Two JSERC members attended the meeting, bringing their technical and legal expertise. Technical member Atul Kumar acknowledged the widespread complaints and emphasized that there had been little discussion in support of the hike. Law member Mahender Prasad encouraged consumers to report corruption and promoted the use of solar energy. They reassured consumers that proper procedures are in place for transformer replacements, making bribery unnecessary. JSERC members also instructed JBVNL to set up awareness and grievance resolution camps for the public.