The RWAs have unanimously opposed a 20 per cent hike on power tariff proposed by three private power distribution companies of the city.
In a joint meeting attended by RWAs and representatives from TATA Power Distribution, BSES Yamuna, and BSES (Rajdhani), Delhi Electricity Regularity Commission (DERC), power discoms proposed a hike of 20 per cent on power tariff.
Their reason? Funds crunch.
However, DERC has sought suggestions from various RWAs before taking a final decision.
RWA union, represented by BS Vohra — president of East Delhi RWA Federation — threatened to launch a state-wise protest if DERC accepts the proposal.
RWAs have unanimously demanded CAG audit of all the three discoms — and this is not the first time. RWA Management System
In 2016, RWA bodies had almost had its way when the Delhi government had agreed to conduct CAG audit for discoms accounts. But the discoms managed to a get stay order from the court.
Another longstanding demand of the RWAs — bring discoms under the RTI.
Talking to City Spidey, Vohra said, “How can power companies claim financial losses when the state government provides financial aid to them. How do we know discoms are operating under huge financial crunch when there’s no transparency in their system? They do not come under the RTI. People of Delhi must unite against their monopoly.” RWA Management Software
Prior to this, power tariff in Delhi was hiked by five per cent in 2014. Keeping power tariff low has been a key policy of the Delhi government — it has also allocated Rs 1,720 crore as power subsidy.
United Residents’ Joint Action (URJA) alleged that it is the state government which has given free rein to power companies. Ashutosh Dikshit, URJA secretary, said, “Delhi government has 49 per cent share while private companies have 51 per cent share. Monopoly of private companies will continue unless the state government increases its share.”
