Friday, April 14, 2006

DNA - Mumbai - ‘Why must we get 20% less power?’ - Daily News & Analysis

‘Why must we get 20% less power?’
Prashant Hamine
Friday, April 14, 2006 22:43 IST


MUMBAI: The BJP on Friday demanded the withdrawal of the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) order, directing Mumbaikars to consume 20 per cent less electricity compared to last year.

City BJP president Prakash Mehta said an “international city” like Mumbai could ill-afford to have power cuts.

Moreover, the Centre had assured 250 MWs of power to the state to overcome the power crisis, Mehta said. Therefore, there was no need for such a regulation, he added.

Mehta demanded that the Reliance Energy Limited (REL) be directed to withdraw the notification in its electricity bills asking consumers to pay 100 per cent fine if they consumed more than 300 units per month. Mehta said the party would stage a dharna at Azad Maidan on April 17 to protest against load-shedding.

Meanwhile, MERC Chairman Pramod Deo said the commission order was issued keeping in view the long-term needs of the city. He said there had been no addition to the BEST’s power generation capacity.

Read more at : DNA - Mumbai - ‘Why must we get 20% less power?’ - Daily News & Analysis

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