CPI (M) Opposes Smart Meters in AP

Vijayawada: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI (M)) opposed the installation of prepaid smart meters for agricultural pump sets and residential houses. CPI (M) state secretary V. Srinivasa Rao recalled the previous YSRC government surrendered to the BJP, decided to install smart meters and awarded contracts to Adani and Shirdi Sai Electricals, among others. He alleged that the process was full of corruption.

Srinivasa Rao further recalled that while Telugu Desam was in opposition, it severely opposed these meters and petitions were filed in the High Court. He pointed out that after coming to power, the Telugu Desam coalition government has not cancelled these agreements and continues the installation of smart meters.

The CPI (M) leader said that the government is purchasing smart meters from corporate companies and storing them in electricity offices in many areas, including Vijayawada. “These meters are being fixed for agricultural pump sets and in government offices. Preparations are underway to start fixing the smart meters in the residential houses. This could curtail the free electricity to agriculture in the first phase and there is a risk of gradual decline in the metered pump sets across the state,” he explained.

As to residential houses' electricity connections, Srinivasa Rao said the prepaid meters will increase the electricity charges burden for residential houses. He pointed out that the TD alliance broke its promise, surrendered to the central government's dictum and continued the previously opposed meters. He alleged that the Centre is rolling out these smart meters with the intention to benefits to corporate companies.