In an endeavor to aware general public about alleged bad impact of smart meters on their pockets, Congress party on Friday launched a special campaign. Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Vivek Tankha flagged off ‘Bijli Rath’. Speaking on the occasion, Saurabh Sharma, Chairman of Madhya Pradesh Congress Bijli Samasya Nivaran Prakoshta revealed how the Electricity Department devises new conspiracies to cheat consumers from time to time. He said this time, the State Government and the Electricity Department have joined hands to exploit common people through the use of smart meters. He said the Smart meters, priced at Rs 7,000 are being installed for free in every household. Sharma said Congress’ Bijli Rath is showcasing a documentary film exposing the smart meter scam on big LED screens. This chariot will tour every square in the city, screening the documentary film and delivering a clear message to the electricity consumers about the department’s involvement.

 

He said the term “smart meter” is misleading and damaging to the budgets of common electricity consumers. These smart meters provide more inaccurate readings than digital meters. In one case, a smart meter installed in a resident of Shatabdi Puram was found to give a reading of 0.7 even when there was no load. Sharma cautioned the electricity department that these smart meters will not be allowed in the city and if they attempts are made to install them, a strong protest will be launched. Sharma has appealed to every electricity consumer to oppose smart meters and contact the Prakosht helpline numbers 9589131119, 9589134448 in need.