Houseboat owners decry exorbitant hike in power tariff

Srinagar, Nov 30: The Kashmir Houseboat Owners Association (KHBOA) has strongly condemned the dramatic increase in electricity tariffs, calling for the installation of smart meters to address billing concerns.

Speaking at a press conference today, KHBOA President Manzoor Ahmad Pakhtoon highlighted the severe financial strain caused by the sharp rise in electricity bills. "Our power tariffs have skyrocketed from Rs 1,200 to Rs 6,000 per month," Pakhtoon said. "We have repeatedly requested the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) to install smart meters, but our pleas have fallen on deaf ears."

The association argues that the current billing system is unfair, particularly for struggling houseboat owners. Pakhtoon emphasized that the uniform billing approach fails to account for the diverse economic circumstances within the houseboat community. "Many of our members are struggling financially and cannot bear such exorbitant electricity charges," he explained.

A key concern is the billing for houseboats during the winter months when many remain closed. "Owners are being charged for electricity they aren't even consuming," Pakhtoon pointed out. "Smart meters would provide a fair, consumption-based billing system that would bring much-needed relief to our community."

The KHBOA has formally appealed to Principal Secretary of Power Development Department (PDD), Rajesh Prasad, to investigate the recurring electricity bill increases. They are seeking a more equitable approach that considers the seasonal nature of the houseboat tourism industry.

"These arbitrary tariff hikes are creating tremendous stress for houseboat owners," Pakhtoon stated. "We have been advocating for smart meter installation for years as a solution that would bring transparency and fairness to our electricity billing."