Maharashtra is contemplating adopting "Delhi model" pursued under Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to reduce electricity charges, said state Energy Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule in the Legislative Council today.
He was replaying to a Calling Attention Motion moved by NCP MLC Sandeep Bajoria.
Another NCP MLC Vidya Chavan said the BJP-led government should adopt the "model" put in place by Kejriwal in Delhi to reduce electricity charges in Maharashtra.
"The Kejriwal Government is supplying electricity at cheap rates and has given relief to the common man. Will Maharashtra Government adopt the same model here?" she asked.
In Delhi, the AAP Government has reduced power tariff through subsidy.
In his reply, Bawankule said, "state-owned electricity corporations have a loan of Rs 55,000 crore. The Government is trying to reduce the loan first and electricity rate will subsequently come down. We will definitely try and reduce electricity charges like the Kejriwal Government has done."
Pravin Darekar of BJP raised the issue of adivasi 'padas' (settlements) inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park, located within Mumbai limits, who are yet to get electricity.
"Despite Mumbai being an international city, adivasi padas inside the SGNP are without electricity. Whenever tribals demand electricity, the Government asks them to get an NOC from the civic body and Forest Department. Will the Government do something to help them?" he asked.
Bawankule said, "in future, there will be no need to take an NOC from the BMC or Forest Department to obtain electricity meters. The Government will make them available whenever required."
Bajoria alleged the government-owned utility Mahavitaran has provided 8 lakh "faulty" electricity meters in Mumbai, Pune and Kalyan.
"Mahavitaran violated rules while giving contracts for supplying meters, leading to trouble for consumers in Mumbai, Pune and Kalyan. What action has been taken against the officials concerned?" he asked.
Bawankule refuted the allegations and said companies vying for contracts have to clear various tests before becoming eligible to supply meters.
