Maharashtra may follow Delhi-like model to reduce electricity bills
Picture Courtesy- Pheonix electrics
During the Legislative Council meet on Tuesday, state Energy Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said that Maharashtra may look at adopting a model similar to Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government to reduce electricity charges in the state.
The minister was replying to a Calling Attention Motion moved by NCP MLC Sandeep Bajoria.
Another NCP MLC Vidya Chavan said the BJP-led government should adopt the model introduced by Kejriwal in Delhi to reduce electricity charges in Maharashtra. “The Kejriwal Government is supplying electricity at cheap rates and has given relief to the common man. Will Maharashtra Government adopt the same model here?” she asked.
In Delhi, the AAP Government has reportedly reduced power tariff by providing subsidy.
In response, Bawankule said, “State-owned electricity corporations have a loan of Rs 55,000 crore. The Government is trying to reduce the loan first and electricity rate will subsequently come down. We will definitely try and reduce electricity charges like the Kejriwal Government has done.”
MLC Pravin Darekar of BJP also raised the issue of adivasi settlements inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park, which are within Mumbai’s city limits, but yet to get electricity. “Despite Mumbai being an international city, adivasi padas inside the SGNP are without electricity. Whenever tribals demand electricity, the Government asks them to get an NOC from the civic body and Forest Department. Will the Government do something to help them?” he asked.
To which, Bawankule replied, “In future, there will be no need to take an NOC from the BMC or Forest Department to obtain electricity meters. The Government will make them available whenever required.”
When asked what action was taken against the officials of government-owned Mahavitaran, who had allegedly distributed 8 lakh faulty electricity meters in Mumbai, Pune and Kalyan, Bawankule refuted the allegations. He also added the companies which apply for such contracts have to become eligible by clearing certain tests.
