In Uttar Pradesh, images of smart meters lying on the streets and slogans against the government emerged from almost every district. These images increased the anxiety of the Yogi Adityanath government. It became clear that the opposition had identified a major issue, and the matter was gradually becoming a public movement. Following this, the government took a series of decisions, including converting smart prepaid meters to postpaid ones.
Let’s explore how the Yogi government backtracked on smart meters, yet why people still harbour doubts about prepaid meters.
The Smart Meter Plan Was Launched Three Years Ago
Indeed, three years ago, the government launched a plan to install smart meters on a large scale in the state. Its objective was to provide real-time consumption information, online billing, and curb power theft. Smart prepaid meters were installed in approximately 7 million homes and made mandatory for new connections. Under this system, consumers first recharge their electricity and then use it.
However, as soon as smart prepaid meter bills began to arrive, consumers felt overcharged. Complaints increased in several districts, and allegations of inflated bills were made.
Upheaval following complaints of power outages
Complaints of power outages also increased rapidly. Consumers alleged that power was disconnected as soon as their balance reached a negative, and even after payment, the supply was not restored for 24 to 72 hours. In many places, people uprooted and threw away meters in protest. Consumers alleged that while the monthly bill previously averaged around ₹600, they now incurred a weekly bill.
In response to public outrage, the government announced relief measures in April. This included a maximum three-day power suspension of up to ₹200 upon exhaustion of the balance, and a five-level SMS alert system was implemented.
Major Government Decision: Prepaid Meters Removed
Despite continued protests, the government took a major decision and announced the conversion of prepaid meters to the postpaid mode. Now, consumers will pay their bills after using electricity, as before. The option of paying the outstanding amount in 10 instalments has also been provided. Bills will be issued by the 10th of every month, and payment will be made within 15 days.
The government has also abolished the requirement for prepaid meters. New connections can also be issued on a postpaid basis, and existing prepaid meters will be converted to postpaid.
This system, implemented in approximately 7 million homes, was affecting 3 to 4 crore people. The issue of prepaid smart meters became so heated that the Yogi government feared public outrage. Assembly elections are scheduled for the state by the end of this year. Consequently, the Yogi government decided to address this public outrage. However, it remains to be seen whether the Yogi government, while withdrawing its smart meter decision, will be able to allay the public’s doubts and apprehensions about prepaid smart meters.
