Strict action if corruption of distribution agency staff is proved

The Electricity Department has warned that strict legal action will be taken against the officials or employees of any electricity distribution company if the allegations of corruption or wrongdoing are proved in the investigation in connection with the complaint of receiving excessive electricity bills in June.

Electricity Department Secretary Mirana Mahrukh said this at the discussion and review meeting of the Electricity Department on Thursday (July 2) regarding quick settlement of customers’ complaints of excess bills and review of the load shedding situation. This information has been informed in a press release of the Electricity Department.

The meeting held on the Zoom platform under the chairmanship of the Secretary of the Electricity Department was attended by senior officials of the Ministry, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners (DCs) across the country and officials of various electricity distribution agencies and companies.

It was informed in the meeting that a significant number of customers across the country have received additional bills in the month of June. In this regard, the reasons for the complaint of abnormal bills and the statement of the concerned distribution companies were sought. Also the field experience on load shedding and the latest progress in installing net meters in solar systems are also reviewed.

When the Electricity Secretary asked whether any complaints regarding additional bills have come to the District Commissioners, they said that they have not received such significant complaints.

In the meeting, the electricity secretary said that necessary instructions have been given to all the distribution companies for quick settlement of the complaints of the customers regarding the bill. Any errors due to clerical or technical reasons are directed to be rectified promptly. However, strict legal action will be taken against any officer or employee if the complaint is proved in the investigation.

He directed the concerned distribution agencies to investigate and resolve complaints promptly and improve customer service standards.

According to the Electricity Department, customers have been requested to contact the office or hotline of the concerned distribution company for quick resolution of complaints related to excess electricity bills. The hotline numbers are: Electricity Department Central Service 16999, BPDB 16200, Palli Vidyut 16899, BPDC 16116, DESCO 16120, NESCO 16603 and Ojopadico 16117.

Besides, the meeting also discussed the progress of rooftop solar power at the district level. It was informed in the meeting that all the Deputy Commissioners are ready to work in the light of the Government’s instructions. He also assured that they will perform their duties sincerely to reduce public suffering.

RMM/EA