By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 21: Mounting anger over a steep power tariff hike and the lack of visible improvement in electricity supply, particularly across the plain belt areas of Garo Hills has prompted plans for a high-level political meeting in Phulbari on December 22 to chart the next course of action.
Raising concern over the prevailing power scenario, a local leader said sustained efforts had been made with the previous power minister, but admitted that little improvement has been seen on the ground. He pointed out that while power distribution was earlier handled by FEDCO and has since been transferred to another company, the core issues persist.
The recent hike in power tariffs was flagged as a serious matter affecting all sections of society. It was stressed that even if tariff revisions are mandated, any increase should be gradual and not imposed through a steep hike that burdens consumers. The domestic tariff hike, it was warned, could be followed by an increase in agricultural power rates, directly impacting daily livelihoods in the region.
In response to public sentiment, the December 22 meeting in Phulbari will bring together sitting MLAs, former MLAs and senior leaders from the area. The objective is to collectively discuss the issue, determine responsibility for the tariff hike, and decide whom to approach to seek relief for consumers.
The leader said clarity is needed on whether the hike was approved by the government or imposed by the power distribution company, noting that tariff revisions are governed by regulatory mechanisms.
Following the meeting, a formal approach will be made to the government and the concerned ministry, with the demand that power tariff increases be moderated to ensure that common citizens are not adversely affected.
