Budgam, Jan 30: Residents of several villages in central Kashmir’s Budgam district staged protests against the installation of smart electricity meters, citing concerns over high power bills and financial strain.
One of the major demonstrations took place in Chek-i-Kawoosa village, where a large number of women blocked the road in opposition to the new metering system.
Raising slogans, the protestors demanded a rollback of the smart meter installation, arguing that it would significantly increase their electricity bills and worsen their financial condition.
“We are already struggling to make ends meet, and these smart meters will only add to our burden,” said a protesting woman in Chek-i-Kawoosa. “The electricity bills are bound to go up, and we won’t be able to afford them. How will we manage our daily expenses?”
The protestors also accused the authorities of ignoring the economic hardships faced by common people. “We are not against paying for electricity, but the government should consider our financial situation. The smart meters are unfair to poor households,” said another protestor.
Meanwhile, an official maintained that smart meters are aimed at improving power distribution and reducing electricity theft. (KNT)
