July 3,2012 Neha Das
The government seems to be in no mood to
ease the financial crunch for the common man. First, the hike in petrol
and now the hike in electricity tariff. But, do we have any choice?
Apparently, if the Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in the City are
to be believed, ‘Yes we do’.
According to the data available on Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) website, the tariff during FY 12-13 for various categories of consumers and percentage increase over existing tariff is approximately 20.87 per cent. The revised tariff came into effect July 1.
The hike announced by DERC on June 27 was fourth over 10 months, prompting people to demand rollback.
According to the data available on Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) website, the tariff during FY 12-13 for various categories of consumers and percentage increase over existing tariff is approximately 20.87 per cent. The revised tariff came into effect July 1.
The hike announced by DERC on June 27 was fourth over 10 months, prompting people to demand rollback.
For once the RWAs across Delhi have swung into action to oppose the hike. Sandeep Kapoor, General Secretary of East Delhi RWAs Joint Front says, “We have written letters to the chairman, DERC and are planning a meeting with the CM. The government will have to dilute its decision. This is a sure shot plan ahead of the elections in 2014. They cannot increase the rates at that time, so that is why they are playing a safe game here.”
Terming the hike improper, Kendra Prakash Sharma, President of Lajpat Nagar IV, Colonies RWA, says, “We strongly oppose this hike. It is like the coin in Sholay where Amitabh Bachchan used to win with the help of a coin having the same sides. BSES too seems to have that coin and always wins. Its the consumer who loses out each time. Bhagidaari, a group comprising RWAs and Delhi government officials are planning to meet at Talkatora complex today, to sort out the issue.”
DERC in August last had hiked the tariff by 22 per cent for all categories of consumers, which was again increased by five per cent in February instant, another two percent in May and now this. When Metrolife tried to speak to DERC officials on the matter, they were too busy to
respond.
On your part, you as a consumer are free to register your protest by filing a complaint with Appellate Tribunal for Electricity about the proposed tariff hike.
with thanks : Deccan Herald : LINK
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