By TC News Desk
Agartala, 15th December 2025: The installation of smart meters under the Bishramganj Electric Sub-Division is nearing completion, but the challenge of recovering pending electricity bills—amounting to nearly Rs 12 crore remains pressing, according to Senior Manager (SDO) Saurav Reang. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Riang confirmed that while the rollout of smart meters has progressed significantly, the backlog of unpaid bills continues to strain the system.
A survey conducted in 2023 recorded 11,137 consumers under the Bishramganj Sub-Division, and as of December 15, 2025, the number of consumers has risen to 12,166. Out of the initial consumer base, 8,875 households have already been fitted with smart meters, while installation work is ongoing for the remaining 2,262 consumers. Riang dismissed fears that smart meters generate higher bills, calling such claims misinformation, and noted that initial resistance from consumers has faded as awareness has grown.
To address recurring power disruptions during monsoon seasons, the department has introduced a cable system in hilly regions, which prevents trees from collapsing onto overhead wires, a problem that previously left villages without electricity for weeks. The cable system also aims to curb electricity theft through illegal hook lines, which often caused voltage drops. With the hill projects completed, similar cabling work will now begin across plains, markets, and residential areas.
The SDO acknowledged that pending bills remain a major concern, with outstanding dues standing at Rs 12 crore. To recover payments, the department has cut transformers, disconnected jumpers, and suspended connections in several areas. While such measures have led to partial recovery, they also affect consumers who pay bills on time, creating further complications.
Addressing concerns that smart meters would render meter readers jobless, Reang clarified that their role has evolved, as meter readers now handle bill delivery and spot collections. They receive a 5% commission from collections, which has increased their earnings rather than reduced them. Consumers are also being encouraged to pay bills promptly, with a 4% subsidy offered for online payments made within five days of billing and a 3% subsidy for offline payments within the same period.
Reang urged defaulters to clear their dues immediately, stressing that electricity is essential for every household and industry. “Without timely payment, the system cannot function smoothly,” he said, adding that the department is making continuous efforts to recover the arrears.
