Daijiworld Media Network - Lucknow
Lucknow, Apr 20: The Uttar Pradesh government has temporarily halted the ongoing rollout of prepaid smart meters until a technical committee submits its report, while announcing relief measures to ensure uninterrupted power supply for consumers with low or zero balance.
The move follows widespread opposition to the installation of smart meters across the state. Energy Minister A K Sharma, during a review meeting at Shakti Bhawan in Lucknow, said existing smart meter users will continue to receive electricity for up to three days or until dues reach Rs 200 for loads up to 2 KW, even if their prepaid balance is exhausted.
Officials said the decision aims to address consumer complaints and ease concerns regarding the smart metering system. A four-member technical committee, comprising experts from IIT Kanpur, ERDA Vadodara and the UP Power Corporation, has been tasked with examining the technical performance and quality of the meters. The panel is expected to submit its report within 10 days.
The government has also introduced a transition cushion for newly installed meters. No disconnections will be carried out for up to 45 days, including a 15-day conversion period followed by 30 days, to help consumers adjust to the prepaid system.
To improve transparency, a five-stage SMS alert system will be introduced, notifying users when their balance drops to 30 per cent, 10 per cent, when it is exhausted, one day prior to disconnection, and after disconnection.
The minister further directed that electricity connections should not be disconnected on Sundays or public holidays, even if the balance turns negative, stressing a humane approach to service delivery.
Officials added that a consumer awareness campaign has been launched along with a smart prepaid meter FAQ document. Grievance redressal systems have also been strengthened through helpline services, including the toll-free number 1912, the UPPCL website and a WhatsApp chatbot, with regional contact numbers made available.
Authorities have been instructed to monitor complaints on a daily basis and ensure prompt resolution, amid rising feedback over billing transparency, balance deductions and service continuity under the smart meter system.