Somaiya demands review of electricity tarriffs

Mumbai, Apr12 (UNI) The Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) today heard the petition of Dr Kirit Somiaya and other BJP leaders seeking revision of higher tariff rates regarding use of electricity in the city.

Arguing on behalf of the petition, counsel Rajiv Kumar stated the Centre had assured an uninterrupted supply of power for Mumbai in order to avoid adverse publicity following the report that the city might face acute loadshedding in the ensuing summer season.

Dr Somaiya alleged that the private companies were deliberately extorting money from people through increased tarriffs, while the production of electricty was not being increased.

He further said the MERC should take back its March-two order of increasing tariffs on electricity beyond 300 units, in view of the Centre's assurance of providing additional power to the city.

Through the petition Dr Somaiya, Ram Naik and other BJP leaders requested the commission to immediately roll back its order.

Highlighting the profit making aspect of private companies the leaders said from 1990 TATA has failed to increase its electricity production and similar was the case with Reliance.

Dr Pramod Deo, Chairperson of MERC said that the Private players have been given a week's time to submit their client status and the quantum of electricty provided by them.

He also stated that there was nothing like higher tariffs, however load management charge would be levied above 300 units of consumption.

To avoid further ambiguities on the issue, Dr Somaiaya demanded that the state and Central government should also be made a party to the hearing.

Meanwhile, the commission has assured to look into the matter after hearing all the parties on March 19.

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