2,000 RWAs raise voice against hike in power tariff

Members of various residents' welfare associations (RWAs) participated in a 'Bijli Andolan' at the Talkatora Stadium against increased power tariff. The andolan, flagged off by senior BJP leader and former Union minister Vijay Goel, saw the participation of 2,000 RWAs, NGOs and traders' associations.

Members of various residents' welfare associations (RWAs) participated in a 'Bijli Andolan' at the Talkatora Stadium against increased power tariff. The andolan, flagged off by senior BJP leader and former Union minister Vijay Goel, saw the participation of 2,000 RWAs, NGOs and traders' associations.

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Power tariff was last hiked in August by 22%. Members of the RWAs, who had gathered at the stadium, demanded that audit of power distribution companies be conducted. "Unless the CAG conducts the audit of power distribution companies, increased rates should not be enforced," said DS Vohra, chairman of East Delhi Federation of RWAs.

Goel added the next meeting would be held at the Ramlila Ground. "The rates have already been hiked by 22% and the balance 58% may be increased in subsequent years on the grounds that the discoms are suffering losses. If these companies, despite getting 16% assured return, suffer losses, they should get out of business, and fresh tenders for discoms should be invited through international competitive bidding," he said.

"The profit, which the distribution companies are making on account of reduction in losses, should be passed on to the consumers. They have been increasing tariff, but load-shedding is reported everyday. Quality power supply should be provided to every citizen," said SK Sharma, chairman, federation of RWAs of Rohini.

The participants demanded that consumers should not be made to pay for power theft and leakages. Also, punitive damages should be imposed on discoms for not providing stable power supply. "The distribution companies have been claiming that they have been making huge losses, this should be investigated," said Rajiv Kakaria, member of Greater Kailash I RWA.