A prepaid Smart meter box of the Department of Power Nagaland. As per recent policy tweaks, pre and post paid smart metering could become a norm in the future. (Morung File Photo)
Dimapur, February 19 (MExN): The Gaon Bura Union Dimapur (GBUD), Sadar has reiterated its decision to oppose prepaid electric billing system.
The resolution regarding the same was adopted unanimously during a recent GBUD executive meeting after concluding that the “prepaid electric metering system is more of a disadvantage, both in terms of practicability and technicality,” stated the union in a press release.
As per the GBUD, the meeting also concurred that consumers have accepted the digital postpaid meter billing system through online/offline and the mechanism has been effective so far with no room for tampering.
Thus, it questioned the reason behind introducing the prepaid system, arguing that it goes entirely against consumer interests and welfare while promoting private sector monopolies.
The prepaid meters will pave the way for privatisation, as the system would be controlled by a private enterprise for profit rather than ensuring affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity access for the general public, it added.
The GBUD also asserted that the public has the right to know how the prepaid meter benefits consumers, including whether it ensures better supply, is more economical or not, and if the cost of the installed digital meter will be refunded.
These are issues requiring adequate clarification from the concerned department, ensuring that consumers have the choice between using a digital meter or a prepaid meter, it added.
Accordingly, the union stated that until these concerns are clarified, prepaid meter installation should not be made mandatory.
“The GB union is ever ready to cooperate with the power department, however, it shall stand opposed to the prepaid meter for the cause of the common people,” it added.
The latest decision is the reiteration of earlier joint resolution adopted by the GBUD and Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) on the issue.
