Bhubaneswar, 11 March (H.S.): A total of 25,076 low-tension (LT) electricity connections were disconnected across Odisha over the past five years due to non-payment of electricity bills, Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo informed the State Assembly on Wednesday.

Replying in writing to a question raised by BJD leader and Balikuda-Erasama MLA Sarada Prasanna Jena, the Minister stated that out of the total disconnected connections, 12,195 have been restored across all state power distribution companies during the financial years 2021-22 to 2025-26.

The reconnections were carried out by the state’s DISCOMs, including TPNODL, TPWODL, TPCODL, and TPSODL.

Singh Deo also informed the House that electricity supplied for agricultural purposes is provided at subsidised rates to support farmers. LT consumers in the agricultural sector are charged ₹1.50 per unit, while high-tension (HT) consumers pay ₹1.40 per unit, which is significantly lower than the average electricity tariff.

To address grievances related to electricity supply and billing, all DISCOM offices—from Section Offices to Circle Offices—have been directed to take necessary measures. Farmers and other consumers can also approach Experience Centres and Customer Care units for assistance.

The Minister further stated that, in accordance with the regulations of the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission, Grievance Redressal Forums (GRFs) are functioning under the DISCOMs, while Ombudsman offices have also been established to handle and resolve consumer complaints effectively.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda