Smart meter issues trigger protest at Indira Nagar substation

They also alleged that smart meters were installed without proper consent and in violation of rules.

: Anger over prepaid smart meters led to protests in Lucknow on Sunday as members of the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) staged a demonstration at the Sector 25 Indira Nagar power substation.

Hundreds of consumers and AIDWA activists protest against smart meters at Indira Nagar Sector 25 Power House in Lucknow on Monday. (Deepak Gupta/ HT)

The protest followed a midnight power cut that reportedly left residents without electricity throughout the night. Protesters alleged that power supply was disconnected despite there being sufficient balance in prepaid smart meters. They said many families, especially women-led households, suffered for several hours without electricity. Demonstrators entered the substation premises, raised slogans and accused officials of ignoring consumer complaints.

AIDWA leaders claimed that the installation of smart meters has caused unexplained increases in electricity bills. They said the burden was falling heavily on low-income families already facing rising household expenses.

They also alleged that smart meters were installed without proper consent and in violation of rules. The group demanded immediate removal of smart meters, refund of inflated bills with interest, and 300 units of free electricity for domestic consumers. They warned of stronger protests if their demands were not addressed.