Seminar on Electricity Issues - Agartala
Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG), Chennai, in collaboration with Consumer Protection Association, Agartala, organised a seminar on electricity issues on 11 August 2024, at Agartala, Tripura. This seminar focused on creating awareness among the public, about the Tripura electricity sector and in particular about the distribution company’s functions. The goal of the seminar was to educate consumers with the information they needed to participate in the electricity sector actively.
Mr. Amrit Lal Saha welcomed the participants
Mr. Amrit Lal Saha, President, Consumer Protection Association welcomed the gathering and introduced the project called “Accelerating Clean Energy Transition By Improving Stakeholder Participation For Electricity Governance In India”. He explained that the project is designed to facilitate consumer and civil society organization involvement in the electricity sector.
Ms. Dalia Saha, a member of the Tripura State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission, emphasized the important role of dispute resolution mechanism in protecting consumer rights within the state. As part of the state-level consumer court, she recognized its significance in addressing consumer grievances. However, she noted that consumer awareness about this mechanism remains continuously low, with many relying on word-of-mouth guidance from others. In order to bridge this knowledge gap, Ms. Saha emphasized the need for awareness programs like this one, which would benefit both consumers and civil society organizations. This initiative aims to encourage greater consumer involvement in the dispute resolution process.
Participants at the event
Ms. Dalia Saha shared her personal experience with the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL), highlighting the significant improvement made in recent decades. However, she added that recurring electricity issues continue to be a problem in rural Tripura, but enhanced regulations and oversight from the Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission have substantially improved TSECL's accountability. These reforms ensure that the corporation adheres to its duties, safeguarding consumer interests and upholding their rights
Sri Rajib Kr Roy, Deputy General Manager of Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) at the event
Sri Rajib Kr Roy, Deputy General Manager of Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL), emphasized the corporation's crucial role in driving Tripura's economic development by providing reliable and affordable electricity. He highlighted TSECL's commitment to prioritizing consumer satisfaction and transparency, ensuring smooth power distribution. He also emphasized the 24/7 grievance redressal system of TSECL, which promptly addresses consumer needs. Additionally, he introduced "Bidyut Bandhu," TSECL's online service system that serves as a one-stop solution for addressing all consumer problems and queries.
Mr.Subhasish Datta, Manager of Jogendra Nagar Sub-Division at Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) speaking at the event
Mr.Subhasish Datta, Manager of Jogendra Nagar Sub-Division at Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL), discussed the infrastructure of his division. He assured that consumer grievances are promptly addressed. Emphasizing TSECL's commitment to transparency and accountability, Mr. Datta explained that officials adhere strictly to rules and regulations. To ensure seamless operations, the Managing Director conducts monthly meetings focused on consumer-centric discussions, including (i) Enhancing infrastructure (distribution transformers, wires, etc. (ii) Expedited grievance resolution processes, (iii)Easy access for consumers to contact officials
The meeting had question and answer sessions anchored by Mr.Subhasis Datta;
Mr. A inquired about the time required to obtain a new connection. Mr. Datta clarified that the process entails submitting ID proof, address proof, and a copy of the property deed, followed by payment. Later, a new service connection will be provided within 7-10 working days.
Question and answer session in progress
Mr. B expressed concern over frequent unannounced power outages in rural Tripura and highlighted the lack of a proper solution. Mr. Dutta recommended lodging complaints via the 24/7 helpline (1912) and at the nearby distribution office. He also suggested accessing the officials' contact numbers from the TSECL website, which are available at the distribution office. Typically, TSECL restores power within 2-4 hours, depending on the severity of the issue.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr.Amrit Lal Saha