Electricity Bills: Farmers protest inflated electricity bills in Bargarh district

Farmers in Bargarh dist protest against 'inflated' electricity bills

Bhubaneswar: Farmers at Attabira township in Bargarh district on Thursday gathered in front of the power distributor’s office to protest the alleged unfair collection of electricity bills. The agitators have alleged faulty billing by the power supply company Tata Power Western Odisha Distribution Limited (TPWODL) and raised concerns about the company’s tactics during bill collection.
They have also questioned the BJP leaders about their poll promise to provide 300 units of free electricity.
Over 5,000 meters have been removed and discarded by farmers and residents in the past week.
In response, TPWODL said in a press release that the smart meters are reliable and safe and they use modern technology to measure electricity usage.
Deputy chief minister KV Singh Deo said, “Misinformation is being spread and electricity meters are being removed. If any untoward incident occurs due to the unauthorized removal of the meters, the distribution company is not responsible.” He added that there were no such announcements of giving free electricity up to 300 units. “It can be availed through the installation of rooftop solar panels under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana,” he said.
Ramesh Mahapatra, a farmer leader, said, “Farmers can’t pay an electricity bill of Rs 3000-4000 every month. These bills should come under irrigation costs and should be rebated by the govt.”

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