CPM protests power tariff hike plan in Tripura

Agartala: Opposition CPM protested the Tripura State Electricity Corporation’s (TSECL) plan to increase power tariffs for both residential and commercial users, calling the proposed hike unjust and a significant burden on consumers.Party leaders have criticised TSECL for its lack of efficiency, advocating instead for improved billing methods rather than higher rates.Speaking to the media after a public hearing held by the Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission (TERC), CPM state committee member Ratan Das expressed concerns that the proposed increases would harm the public, particularly those who are already facing financial difficulties.Das pointed to TSECL’s failures in operational performance in recent years, noting a substantial drop in the state’s power generation. He said no new power plants have been built in Tripura for the past seven and a half years, limiting improvements in power production.He emphasised that energy generation has decreased significantly since the Left Front was in power, with facilities established during that administration now producing around 64 per cent less energy, highlighting the current govt’s neglect.

Additionally, he challenged TSECL’s justifications for the tariff changes, arguing that citing prior operational costs and financial deficits is not a valid excuse. “Approximately 25 per cent of consumers aren’t paying their bills. Rather than punishing timely payers, TSECL should strive for complete billing and collection efficiency,” Das said.The proposal from TSECL includes a Time of Day (TOD) tariff structure, which would introduce varying rates based on usage times.

The peak hours are identified as 5pm to 11pm, during which commercial users exceeding 10KW would incur charges 140 per cent higher than usual, while residential users would experience a 110 per cent increase.To add to the concern, TSECL has proposed a notable 100 per cent rise in fixed charges, potentially leading to substantial increases in monthly electricity bills for all consumer categories. It's important to remember that the last adjustment to electricity rates in Tripura occurred in 2024, sparking significant public protests throughout the state.