Kolkata, Jul 21 (PTI) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday launched a mobile application to register power theft complaints, saying the government has zero tolerance for electricity pilferage but will ensure a humane approach towards domestic consumers with pending dues.
The ‘Bidyut Prahari’ app will enable consumers to report cases of power theft and track the status of their complaints.
“All complaints related to electricity theft can be lodged through this app. They will be resolved promptly. We will undertake several more initiatives in due course,” Adhikari said Asserting the government was determined to curb power theft, he said, “We have to bring electricity theft down to zero.” “There will be zero tolerance towards pending electricity bills of factories. Many commercial buildings also have outstanding electricity bills. In most cases, the owners are close to political leaders. That will not be tolerated,” the chief minister said.
At the same time, he asked officials to deal with household consumers with outstanding bills with empathy. “Be humane in the case of domestic consumers. Decisions should be taken after looking at their past payment records.” The chief minister also announced a major change in the recruitment process for the power department, saying appointments would be routed through the West Bengal Public Service Commission.
“There should be a proper system for recruitment. If a minister asks officials to accommodate someone, it becomes difficult for them to refuse. But I do not want recruitment to take place in that manner. People should complete their education and secure jobs through the proper process,” he said.
About the ‘Bidyut Prahari’ app, a senior official of the power department said it would allow users to report incidents of power theft and other electricity-related grievances, besides tracking the status of their complaints.
The identity of complainants reporting electricity theft will be kept confidential, while officials will monitor complaints round the clock to ensure prompt action, he said.
Consumers will also be able to register service-related grievances and submit feedback through the application, the officer added. PTI SCH NSD
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