Kolkata, 10 June (H.S.): In a significant move prioritizing public interest, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has put an immediate halt to the installation of smart electricity meters in residential households across the state. The decision was announced following growing protests in multiple districts and was officially conveyed through a notification issued by the state’s Power Department on Monday night.

Over the past few months, smart meters had been installed on a trial basis in homes across selected areas of South Bengal—including parts of North and South 24 Parganas, Bardhaman, and Bankura. However, escalating discontent among residents and reports of public demonstrations prompted the issue to be raised during a cabinet meeting. State Power Minister Arup Biswas briefed the Chief Minister on the matter, leading to the decision to suspend further installations in homes for the time being.

According to power department officials, smart meters have already been successfully installed in commercial establishments, government offices, and telecom towers. The modern devices, which are widely used in metros like Delhi and Mumbai, are designed to reduce and better manage electricity consumption.

Experts argue that smart meters offer several benefits, including real-time consumption monitoring, prepaid billing options similar to mobile recharges, and greater billing accuracy. Consumers would also be able to continue using up to ₹300 worth of electricity even if their prepaid balance is exhausted, ensuring uninterrupted power supply.

Despite these advantages, misinformation and concerns regarding inflated bills have triggered anxiety among residents. In light of these issues, the government has chosen to take a cautious approach.

Technical experts from the power distribution corporation clarified that smart meters come equipped with in-house display units and can be controlled remotely through mobile apps. This feature allows users to track electricity usage minute-by-minute and switch off services remotely—particularly useful when homes are unoccupied, potentially preventing electrical mishaps and unauthorized usage.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh