By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 3 Dec: Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL) has begun work on installation of smart prepaid meters in the state. UPCL has stated that consumers can obtain information about smart meters and supply-related issues by contacting UPCL’s toll-free number 1912. To begin with, a call centre has been established for this in which 63 male and 42 female employees are providing services in three shifts.
Managing Director of UPCL, Anil Kumar claimed that electricity-related complaints are promptly directed to the departments via the toll-free number for easy resolution, and a complaint number is issued immediately after a consumer lodges a complaint.
It has also been shared that the consumers can recharge their smart meters with a minimum amount of Rs 100 through their mobile phones. It has also been claimed by the UPCL that the installation of smart meters eliminates the need for consumers to visit the office for issues like incorrect billing. Consumers can now use electricity according to their needs. Additionally, they will be relieved from the obligation to pay a security deposit based on kilowatt usage. The security deposit already paid by consumers will be adjusted with the prepaid smart meter recharge. UPCL will receive immediate information on any breakdowns, and faulty meters will be replaced free of cost on a priority basis, it has been further claimed.
In an official statement issued today, MD Anil Kumar shared that UPCL has started the process of replacing old meters with new smart prepaid meters. He claimed that the primary aim of this initiative is to provide consumers with a more transparent and convenient billing service. Prepaid meters allow consumers to recharge in advance based on their electricity consumption, thereby eliminating billing-related inconveniences.
A 24-hour centralised call centre is now operational, providing information on smart meters and addressing electricity-related complaints. Consumers can track their complaints through a self-service mobile application, which also provides information. Over 500 issues are being resolved daily through the call centre. The UPCL claims that in case, complaints are not resolved promptly, consumers can register them at the local UPCL complaint centres.
