In response to mounting grievances from power consumers regarding inflated electricity bills, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of Bihar has called upon officials to expedite the installation of state-of-the-art smart pre-paid meters in every household throughout the state. This innovative step is expected to resolve the persisting issue of erroneous power billing.
During an exhaustive review of the electricity department’s operations, Chief Minister Kumar identified three principal concerns raised by the public: the inflation of power bills, low voltage complications, and irregular power supply. In a visionary move, Kumar emphasized the installation of smart pre-paid meters as a definitive solution to the problem of defective power billing. These meters will enable consumers to remit payments in accordance with their actual power consumption.
Furthermore, Kumar directed officials to accelerate the deployment of solar panels on government buildings, as a means of fostering solar energy utilization within the state. In addition, he encouraged rural residents to embrace solar power as a sustainable energy source, recounting his recent interactions with villagers in Jehanabad who initially regarded solar energy skeptically but soon recognized its immense value.
To enhance public safety and minimize energy misuse, Chief Minister Kumar also mandated the installation of solar street lamps in every ward. The comprehensive review meeting also encompassed the functioning of the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) and a directive to ensure the delivery of clean potable water to every household.
Prominent figures attending this pivotal review session included Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, Energy cum Planning Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, PHED Minister Lalit Kumar Yadav, and Panchayati Raj Minister Murari Prasad Gautam.
