Assam Minister Proposes Dual Meter for 126 MLAs Amidst Row Over Alleged Exorbitant Smart Meter Charges
First Published: 22nd August, 2024 19:31 IST
Minister Hazarika said that the installation of dual meters will allow the truth to emerge regarding the opposition’s allegations of exploitation through smart meters.
In response to opposition claims that smart meters have led to exorbitant electricity bills and allegations of corruption surrounding their implementation, Assam Water Resources and Information & Public Relations Minister Pijush Hazarika has suggested installing both smart and conventional meters in the residences of all 126 MLAs to provide a clear comparison and address the debate over whether smart meters are indeed causing unfair billing practices.
Minister Hazarika said that doing so will offer a transparent assessment of the situation at the end of the month, allowing the truth to emerge regarding the opposition’s allegations of exploitation through smart meters.
“Since Congress raised the issue on the first day of the Assembly’s autumn session, I have suggested that let’s install both the smart and the conventional meter at the residences of all 126 MLAs. At the end of the month, if this dual-meter setup shows different bills, then definitely the State Government will take proper action,” the Minister added.
Minister Hazarika stated that the opposition, however, did not agree to his proposal to install conventional as well as smart meters.
In response to growing concerns from the public regarding the spike in electricity bills for the months of June and July compared to March and April, the Minister said that the primary reason for the higher bills is the significant difference in temperature between the two periods.
“The heat is not as intense during March and April, which results in less usage of cooling appliances. However, in June and July, the temperatures soar, leading to increased reliance on fans, air conditioners, and refrigerators. This naturally causes a rise in electricity consumption and, consequently, higher bills,” Minister Pijush Hazarika added.
Watch:
https://x.com/Pijush_hazarika/status/1826569201924145209
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