Srinagar, : Consumers across several parts of Kashmir have expressed resentment over the recent electricity tariff hike, alleging that rising bills and irregular power supply have added to the financial burden on ordinary households.
After an elected government returned to power in Jammu and Kashmir, many residents had hoped for relief from rising living costs. However, consumers say the reported six percent increase in electricity tariffs, along with alleged hikes exceeding nine percent in some non-metered areas, has left them disappointed.
Consumers have questioned the gap between the government’s promises of relief, including the proposed benefit of 200 units of free electricity for eligible households, and the bills they claim to be receiving.
Advocate G. N. Bukhari, who practices at the Additional District & Sessions Court, Handwara, raised concerns over electricity bills issued to consumers in North Kashmir. He alleged that some households had received bills showing increases beyond the approved six percent hike, with certain consumers claiming that their bills had nearly doubled.
“Consumers from North Kashmir have every right to know why their electricity bills are increasing beyond the announced tariff revision. The authorities must explain the basis of these charges and ensure that no household is overbilled,” Bukhari said.
Local residents said the situation was particularly difficult for families dependent on daily wages, who are already struggling to manage household expenses amid rising prices.
Shamim Ahmad, a resident of Langate and a daily-wage laborer of the Jal Shakti Department, said his electricity bill had increased from Rs 1,300 in the previous month to Rs 1,420 for September.
“I earn my livelihood through daily labor. Some days I find work, while on other days I return home empty-handed. My electricity bill has increased despite our limited income. It becomes difficult to manage household expenses when every essential service keeps getting costlier,” he said.
Ahmad questioned the increase in his bill and urged the authorities to verify the charges.
“People like us cannot afford unexpected increases in monthly bills. If the approved hike is six percent, the authorities should explain why consumers are being charged more,” he added.
Residents have demanded transparency in tariff calculations and sought an explanation from the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) regarding the complaints.
They urged the government and the Power Development Department to investigate allegations of inflated billing, verify meter readings, review tariff calculations, and ensure that consumers are charged strictly according to approved rates.
However, none of the officials from KPDCL were available to comment on this issue.
