Power consumers to get picture of meter readings on bill

Berhampur (Odisha), July 21: Electricity consumers in southern Odisha will soon get a picture of the meter reading on their monthly bills and SMS alert of dues and payments.

"While SMS alert has already been introduced at some places here, bill with the picture will be launched soon," said B N Mallick, Chief Finance Officer of Southco, one of the power distribution companies in Odisha. He said it will help to solve the alleged problem of overbilling.

"The meter readers currently capture the image for internal use. A software is being developed for getting the image printed on the bill," he said. The Southco has around 13.50 lakh consumers spread over eight southern Odisha districts of Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Boudh, Koraput, Rayagada, Nabarangapur and Malkangiri.

The company is collecting cellphone numbers of its consumers for the SMS service, Mallick said. Plans are afoot to introduce collection-cum grievance centres in villages.

"The Southco officials will hold camps, where consumers can deposit their dues, on a particular day every month. They can also submit their grievances in written," said executive engineer, Southco, Lenka Prasad. The camp site will be decided in consultation with the sarpanch of the panchayat. "It will ensure hassle-free payment of electricity bills," he added.

PTI