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VOICE OF ELECTRICITY WORKERS
BIG PROMISES VIZ VERY LITTLE DELIBERANCE
Tall promises were agreed by the
Delhi's privatised power sector on the pretext power distribution companies
being made more accountable by DERC, a big promise and better service to
consumers but as a matter of fact the supply condition deteriorated under
private establishments. Below listed is an announcement made through Hindustan
Times Correspondant, August 2002:
Private power companies were made more accountable to the consumer in August,
2002. The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) announced that
installation of new connections, transfers of ownership or billing problems will
be governed by new guidelines set by it.
For the consumer, life becomes a little easier: their problems have to be
addressed within specific timeframes. For the distribution companies the
notification is blinding right away, though its penal provisions come into
effect from January 1,2003.
But why didn't the DERC make the fines effective immediately? DERC Chairman, V.K.
Sood said he had deliberately been "soft" on private distribution companies, for
now. The companies have taken over only recently and he wanted the power
privatization process to be successful.
There are several changes to the existing system. You are entitled to a personal
hearing in case the company charges you with power theft. In case you declare
your meter faulty voluntarily, no case will be registered against you. And if
you are going to be away, you can either pay your charges in advance or ask for
a temporary disconnection.
On the other hand, if you haven't cleared your dues, power can be disconnected
within seven days of serving you a notice.
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