: More than 80,000 power consumers have availed themselves of the amnesty scheme by the Delhi government since it was launched on August 30 last year. After repeated extensions, the government has decided to finally conclude the scheme on May 31.
According to figures provided by the Delhi government, a total of 80,149 consumers have availed the 'Bijli Bill Vivad Samadhan Scheme' till May 10.
Discom BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL) have settled 31,542 cases in its area, whereas 18,675 households under the BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL) benefited from the scheme.
The Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL) has resolved 29,932 cases in the past nine months.
The Delhi government said that the scheme, which already has seen four extensions, is not going to be extended any further.
“We are advertising aggressively, so that whoever is left can avail the benefit within these days. The response has been overwhelming and the numbers rightly suggest that,” said Delhi power minister Satyendar Jain.
Surcharges waived
Under the scheme, consumers in JJ clusters are being charged Rs. 250 per month for the period for which they have not paid the dues and have the option of paying it in instalments over six months.
The late payment surcharge has been fully waived for them.
All criminal or civil proceedings are also being withdrawn against those who voluntarily disclose having tampered with meters, the government official said.
When launched on August 30, the scheme was touted as a one-time opportunity to settle disputes till October 31, but it was extended till December 31. It was again extended till March 31, 2016.
In March, power minister had further extended it to April 30 and later to May 31.
Cases against people who admit to having tampered with meters are also being closed
