Complaints Mount Over Smart Meters  Traders Seek Urgent Probe ; Residents allege inflated readings even without power use, raise concerns over wiring issues Shah Re Khass

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

SRINAGAR DECM 24:-The Shah Re Khass Traders and Chambers has raised serious concerns over the functioning of newly installed smart electricity meters in the area, following a surge in complaints from local residents and business owners over the past few weeks.

According to the traders’ body, several residents have reported that their smart meters continue to show higher electricity consumption even when all electrical appliances are switched off. The unexplained increase in recorded usage has caused widespread confusion and anxiety among consumers, who fear inflated power bills despite minimal or no electricity use.

Adding to the concern, some residents suspect that the issue may be linked to Jio Fibre wiring installed in the locality. They have expressed apprehension that faulty or improper underground wiring, or possible leakage currents from the fibre network, could be interfering with the smart meters and conducting earth currents back to the system. Although this theory has not yet been officially confirmed, it has intensified public worry over potential technical flaws and additional financial burden.

The ongoing problem has reportedly caused frustration and mental stress among the affected households and shopkeepers, with many terming the meters as unreliable and faulty.
In view of the situation, the Shah Re Khass Traders and Chambers has appealed to the concerned authorities, particularly the Power Development Department (PDD), the Chief Engineer, and local administration, to intervene immediately. The traders’ body has urged officials to conduct a thorough technical investigation to identify whether the issue stems from meter malfunction, wiring defects, network interference, or incorrect calibration.

“Our aim is to ensure that residents, who are already grappling with multiple challenges, are not subjected to unfair billing due to faulty meters,” said Raqib Altaf Shah, Chief Spokesperson of Shah Re Khass Traders and Chambers. He emphasized that prompt and transparent action by the authorities is essential to restore public trust and guarantee fair billing practices.

The traders’ body expressed hope for a swift resolution, stating that timely corrective measures would go a long way in easing public distress and improving confidence in the smart metering system within the community.