Bhatkal: The people of Bhatkal were disappointed to discover that they were now being charged a flat rate of Rs 7 per unit, as opposed to the previous tiered rates based on consumption. This has resulted in a significant increase in the cost of electricity for many residents, with some individuals receiving bills that are double or even triple their usual amounts.

The announcement of 200 units of free electricity initially brought joy to the people, but instead of receiving the promised free units, they are now disappointed and upset due to the sudden rise in electricity rates and the subsequent receipt of exorbitant bills.

بجلی نرخ میں اچانک اضافےسے بھٹکل کے عوام پریشان؛ تنظیم نے کی ہیسکام سے ملاقات؛ عوام کے لئے اہم پیغام

Concerned individuals seeking assistance approached Majlis Islah Wo Tanzeem, a reputable and long-standing social organization in Bhatkal. Responding promptly, the General Secretary, Abdul Raqeeb MJ Nadvi, took immediate action by scheduling a meeting with Mr. Manjunath, the Assistant Engineer of HESCOM (Hubli Electricity Supply Company).

According to Abdul Raqeeb Nadvi, Mr. Manjunath explained that on May 12, the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) issued an order stating that the new electricity tariffs would be effective from the first meter reading date on or before April 1, 2023. However, the new tariff was implemented shortly after the elections.

It is believed that the previous government instructed the implementation of the new tariff after the elections, leading to the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) enforcing the new rates soon after the formation of the new government.

Mr. Manjunath also clarified that the tariff hike applies not only to the people of Bhatkal but also to the entire state of Karnataka.

Previously, the rates were as follows: up to 50 units were charged at Rs 4.10 per unit, from 51 to 100 units at Rs 5.60, between 101 and 200 units at Rs 7.15, and more than 201 units were billed at Rs 8.20.

Under the new rates, individuals will be charged a flat rate of Rs 7 per unit. Additionally, the rate per kilowatt (KW) has been increased by Rs 10, resulting in a new charge of Rs 110 per KW.

After receiving information from the HESCOM office, Abdul Raqeeb Nadvi, while speaking to the media, stated that a delegation from Tanzeem is planning to meet with the Congress high command, including CM Siddaramaiah, soon. During the meeting, they will discuss the electricity rates along with other issues.

To provide relief to the people affected by the new tariff, Abdul Raqeeb Nadvi appealed to them, assuring them that Tanzeem would make every effort to address their concerns. He urged the residents to remain patient. Additionally, he advised the people of Bhatkal, in consultation with the HESCOM officer, not to make any excessive payments until the delegation meets with the Congress high command. Instead, he recommended paying their regular monthly bill amounts. He further stated that the final decision would be communicated to the residents of Bhatkal following discussions with Congress leaders..