The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has intensified its smart meter rollout by issuing warning notices to consumers who refuse to allow the installation of Time-of-Day (ToD) smart meters, stating that their electricity connections may be disconnected if they continue to deny access.
The notices have triggered fresh controversy, as they also caution consumers that legal action could be initiated for allegedly obstructing government work.
Earlier, MSEDCL had informed consumers through SMS that smart meters would be installed within 48 hours. The campaign had slowed following protests from residents in several areas. However, the power utility has now resumed the drive by sending formal notices to consumers.
One such notice, issued by the Additional Executive Engineer of the Congress Nagar Division, directs consumers to cooperate with authorised MSEDCL personnel and permit the installation of smart meters within 48 hours. According to the notice, failure to comply could lead to temporary disconnection of electricity supply under the applicable rules. It further states that consumers who obstruct the installation process may face legal proceedings.
MSEDCL has also reiterated that replacing conventional electricity meters with smart or remote-reading meters is mandatory as part of its ongoing modernisation programme.
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