Removal of Meters from Live Electricity Connection is an Unlawful Act

Burla, 26.09.2024: While at TPWODL, we put in our best effort to ensure stable, reliable, uninterrupted
power supply to every section of society in our service area. Some consumers of Barapali area of Bargarh
district have again engaged themselves in removal of meters from the place of installation and dumped before
the Tahsil office, which has come to our notice.
We wish to make our stand very clear that, electricity distribution, maintenance, metering, billing, billing tariff
are all regulated by Hon’ble Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC). These tariffs are announced
by Hon’ble OERC once in every year through an open discussion with people from different section of
society. We as a licensee for electricity distribution follow the decision communicated by Hon’ble OERC in
letter and spirit.
According to the regulation and law, a consumer is considered as an official consumer when his connection
provided with a meter irrespective of the place or type of consumption. Removal of meters from a live
electricity connection is absolutely illegal, unlawful and offence under Section 135 & 139 of the Electricity
Act, 2003.
We have stated it at several occasion and instances over last couple of months for the information of
consumers and public at large. So far, the incident of Barapali area is concerned. We have reported this matter
to the Bargarh district civil administration and police administration to initiate action as per the provision in
the law.
Once again, we would reiterate for the interest of all that, smart meters are 100% accurate, reliable and there is
no issue with the equipments, which are provide to the consumer by as. Therefore, any such act which is
unlawful in nature shall be delt by the law enforcement authority accordingly.
More than anything, we have always been requesting consumers that tempering with live electricity
connection may lead to safety hazards. There are chances of loss of life and property while doing so. In the
unfortunate circumstances, if there is any accident takes place, discom will not be held responsible in any
manner.