Maharashtra installs over 1.5 crore smart power meters amid consumer concerns

Mumbai: Maharashtra has achieved a significant milestone in its smart electricity meter installation programme, crossing the 1.5 crore mark on Thursday. Officials stated that this figure represents approximately half of the state’s planned replacement of conventional electricity meters with advanced devices. A substantial portion of these installations involved replacing defective meters, which were reportedly recording incorrect or lower readings.

The initiative has also focused on addressing “zero meters,” devices that showed no consumption despite being connected to the power supply. At least a thousand such meters have been replaced, and they are now reportedly providing accurate readings. The rollout is being spearheaded by state distribution company MSEDCL, along with Mumbai’s BEST undertaking and private utilities Adani Electricity and Tata Power.

Officials clarified that the programme has not yet introduced prepaid meters. However, the installation drive has faced resistance in certain areas, particularly in Mumbai, where consumers have raised concerns about the process. Allegations have surfaced claiming that smart meters are being installed “by force,” with complaints of “trespassing” and utilities failing to consult individual consumers.

In Mumbai’s island city, the Shiv Sena (UBT) has taken up the issue, and sources revealed that at least a dozen FIRs have been filed by aggrieved consumers.