What Actions Are Authorities Taking as 60% of Consumers in Tripura Fail to Pay Power Bills?
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Synopsis
In Tripura, a staggering 60% of electricity consumers are defaulting on bill payments, prompting the authorities to take serious measures such as disconnections and fines. This situation is pushing the state to innovate solutions like rooftop solar installations under government schemes. Discover how these developments are reshaping energy consumption in the region.
Key Takeaways
- 60% of electricity consumers in Tripura are not paying their bills.
- Authorities are disconnecting power and imposing fines on defaulters.
- The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana promotes rooftop solar installations.
- Over 300 households have switched to solar energy.
- TSECL is exploring technology to combat power theft.
Agartala, June 7 (NationPress) Approximately 60 percent of electricity consumers in Tripura are failing to settle their energy bills, prompting authorities to enforce stringent measures such as power line disconnections and significant fines against those in default, according to an official statement released on Saturday.
A senior representative from the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) indicated that of the 9.87 lakh electricity consumers in the state, only 4.32 lakh are punctual in their bill payments.
“Numerous electricity consumers, particularly in rural and remote regions, are neglecting their payments. We have instituted hefty fines and have disconnected the power lines of these defaulters,” explained the official.
He noted that over the past two years, thousands of defaulting consumers had their electricity lines severed.
“On several occasions, TSECL engineers and workers faced attacks or were obstructed when attempting to disconnect power for defaulters,” the official added.
Tripura's Power and Agriculture Minister, Ratan Lal Nath, previously mentioned that TSECL is actively promoting the installation of rooftop solar power plants in numerous homes as part of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a central initiative designed to encourage the adoption of solar power through substantial subsidies.
This scheme allows residents to set up rooftop solar panels, eliminating their electricity costs and providing refunds for excess energy returned to the grid, as stated by the Minister.
“My last power bill before installing the solar plant was Rs 8,726. Now, after switching to solar, I received a refund of Rs 763 from TSECL,” Nath elaborated.
The TSECL is purchasing power from solar power suppliers at Rs 2.65 per unit, with the Minister reporting that over 300 households have already installed rooftop solar systems in Tripura, and thousands more are registered to implement such systems under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
Nath mentioned that TSECL is considering the use of drones and other advanced technologies to identify power theft, losses, and illegal hook usage within the state.
The Minister urged the public to pay their electricity bills promptly to assist the corporation in maintaining a consistent power supply while discouraging theft and waste.
Since 2011, Tripura has maintained a power surplus and supplies electricity to other northeastern states and neighboring Bangladesh from its various gas-based power facilities.
Point of View
The ongoing issue of unpaid electricity bills in Tripura highlights the importance of consumer responsibility and the need for effective governance in managing public utilities. The steps taken by TSECL to address this crisis, including the promotion of renewable energy sources, reflect a commitment to sustainable development while ensuring that necessary actions are taken against defaulters. It's crucial for all stakeholders to engage in finding solutions that benefit both consumers and the energy sector.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are 60% of consumers in Tripura not paying their electricity bills?
Many consumers, especially in rural areas, face financial challenges or lack awareness of the importance of timely bill payments. This has led to significant arrears in electricity costs.
What measures are being taken against defaulters?
Authorities are disconnecting power lines and imposing substantial fines on consumers who fail to pay their electricity bills.
How does the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana work?
This scheme encourages residents to install rooftop solar panels, allowing them to reduce their electricity expenses and earn refunds for excess energy supplied back to the grid.
What is the current status of electricity supply in Tripura?
Tripura has been a power surplus state since 2011, supplying electricity to neighboring regions, including Bangladesh.
How is TSECL addressing power theft?
TSECL is considering using drones and advanced technologies to detect power theft and illegal connections, enhancing monitoring efforts.
