Massive Power Disconnection in Uttar Pradesh Over Smart Meter Debt
In a significant development affecting hundreds of thousands of households, the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) has automatically disconnected more than 2.23 lakh electricity connections across the state. This drastic action was taken due to negative balances accumulating in smart prepaid meters, highlighting the challenges of transitioning to automated billing systems.
Restoration Efforts and Consumer Advisory
According to official statements from the corporation, out of the total 2,23,765 disconnected connections, power supply has been successfully restored to 76,209 consumers. This restoration occurred after these individuals recharged their prepaid accounts, bringing their balances back to positive territory. UPPCL has issued a strong advisory, urging all consumers to recharge their prepaid meters promptly to avoid service interruptions.
The corporation has implemented a temporary relief provision recognizing that the smart meter system is relatively new and many consumers are still adapting to its operational requirements. Under this special facility, if a consumer recharges their meter after disconnection and clears at least 50% of the negative prepaid balance, their connection will be restored for a period of three days.
Automated System and Legal Warnings
The smart meter system operates on a fully automated platform where both disconnection and reconnection processes occur without manual intervention. Electricity supply is automatically terminated when the prepaid balance reaches zero, and it is restored immediately once the account receives sufficient recharge.
UPPCL has issued a stern warning regarding illegal electricity usage on premises where connections have been formally disconnected. The corporation stated that if electricity is found to be used illegally at such locations, cases of power theft will be registered and appropriate legal action will be initiated. This legal action may involve substantial penalties and criminal proceedings against violators.
Limited Relief Facility and Final Recommendations
Officials have clarified that the temporary relief provision—allowing three days of restored service after clearing 50% of negative balance—will be available only once to each consumer. If the consumer fails to fully recharge or maintain a positive balance during this grace period, the electricity supply will again be automatically disconnected without further warning.
UPPCL has strongly advised all consumers to maintain positive prepaid balances to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply. The corporation emphasizes that proactive account management is essential under the automated smart meter system, which eliminates traditional billing cycles and requires continuous balance monitoring.
