Karnataka Bandh On June 22 To Protest Price Hike In Electricity Charges

The Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCC&I) has called for a Karnataka bandh on June 22 to protest against the abnormal price hike in electricity charges.

The objective of the bandh is to draw the attention of the government towards the need for a solution and a reduction in electricity charges.

"In the past eight days, we have made attempts to convey the seriousness of the impact caused by the hike in electricity charges. However, neither the officials nor the government representatives have provided any solutions," said Sandeep Bidasaria, vice president of the association in a letter addressed to its members.

"To draw the government's attention, we are calling for this bandh (shutdown). Our objective is to find a solution and obtain a reduction in electricity charges," the letter further stated.

Why is there a hike in electricity bill?

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) revised the power tariff on May 12, increasing it to an average of 70 paise per unit for all household connections in the state. The revised tariff came into effect from April.

Due to the revised tariff, an additional average charge of 70 paise per unit will be collected in the June bills.

Here's a look at the tariff breakup:

Electricity tariff breakup in urban areas

0-50 units - 411.39 paise/unit
51-100 units - 556.39 paise/unit
101-200 units - 711.39 paise/unit
Above 200 units - 816.39 paise/unit

Tariff breakup in rural areas

0-50 units - 400 paise/unit
51-100 units - 525 paise/unit
101-200 units - 680 paise/unit
Above 200 units - 765 paise/unit