Consumers entitled to compensation for delayed transformer repairs: Jamshedpur MLA Saryu Roy

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur: Do you know that if the transformer near your home in an urban area burns out or stops functioning and isn’t repaired within 12 hours, you are entitled to a compensation of Rs 25? Similarly, in rural areas, if the transformer is not restored within 24 hours, each connected consumer can claim Rs 25 as compensation. However, this claim must be filed at the office of the Superintending Engineer.

This crucial provision was brought to light during a meeting of the Legislative Assembly’s Delegated Committee, chaired by Jamshedpur West MLA Saryu Roy on March 28. The committee reviewed and discussed existing rules and regulations, revealing that the Distribution Licensee Standards of Performance Regulations 2015 (Jharkhand State Electricity Regulatory Commission) clearly outline these consumer rights.

According to this regulation, electricity providers, whether state-run or private (including Tata Steel), must replace or repair a damaged transformer within 12 hours in urban areas and 24 hours in rural areas. Failure to do so will result in each affected consumer receiving Rs 25, deducted directly from the salaries of responsible officials and employees. This provision ensures that electricity department personnel remain proactive in their duties.

Saryu Roy emphasized that while the government has introduced many consumer-friendly regulations, a lack of public awareness prevents people from benefiting from them. Many consumers remain unaware of their right to claim compensation, leading to unnecessary hardships and delays in services. The committee’s analysis found that few people take advantage of the compensation provision due to unawareness.

To address this, Roy has urged citizens to stay informed and vigilant. By exercising their rights and demanding accountability, consumers can ensure that transformers are promptly repaired within the stipulated timeframe, minimizing disruptions to daily life.