Lucknow Residents Stage Protest Against Smart Prepaid Meters and Power Cuts
In a significant demonstration of public discontent, residents of Kanshiram Colony in Lucknow gathered at the Indira Nagar Laulai power substation on Tuesday to protest against the installation of smart prepaid electricity meters and the frequent power cuts plaguing their area. The protest, which included women, elderly residents, and children, highlighted growing frustrations over what they describe as unilateral actions by the power department.
Allegations of Unannounced Installations and Hardship
The protesters raised serious allegations, claiming that smart prepaid meters were installed in over 2,000 households without any prior notice or consent from the residents. They voiced their anger through slogans directed at power department officials, emphasizing that the electricity supply is disconnected immediately when the prepaid balance turns negative. This abrupt cutoff, they argued, causes daily hardship and disrupts essential activities, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly and children.
Demands for Restoration and Consumer Rights
Local councillor Mamta Rawat, who participated in the protest, strongly supported the residents' stance. She stated that the community does not want prepaid meters and demanded the restoration of the old meters that were replaced without their approval. The protest escalated tensions, prompting Gomti Nagar zone chief engineer Sushil Garg to arrive at the power station. In response, he assured the protesters that the issue would be resolved within two days and would be taken up with senior authorities to address their concerns.
Calls for Regulatory Intervention
Adding weight to the protest, Avadhesh Kumar Verma, Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Upbhokta Parishad, called for immediate intervention by the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (UPERC). He alleged violations of consumer rights in the mandatory installation of smart prepaid meters and urged a halt to such practices until proper consultations are held with affected residents. This demand underscores broader issues of transparency and fairness in utility services.
The protest reflects a growing movement against perceived overreach by utility providers, with residents seeking more accountability and respect for their rights in decisions that impact their daily lives.
