Water Board DGMs get powers to disconnect supply

The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has authorised its new Deputy General Managers (Revenue) to disconnect water connections of consumers who have been defaulting for a year.

If a consumer applies for reconnection after disconnection, a penalty of 18 per cent per annum on outstanding balance would be levied along with collection of sewer cess charges for the disconnected period and the required fee for the disconnection (Rs.200) and reconnection (Rs.200), Water Board MD M. Jagadeeshwar issued orders on Monday.

They have also been authorised to look into excessive billing owing to faulty meter reading, billing done without physical verification and other inconsistencies.

Based on the average consumption for three months, they can rectify erroneous demand up to Rs.5,000 for the period not exceeding six months. Similarly, they can also rectify complaints from 15 and 20 mm diameter connections.

In case of any discrepancy in the number of flats, the party should apply in writing to the Manager (Eng) concerned and DGM (Revenue) who will then certify the same for correction of number of flats, the order stated.

These officials can also effect changes in names or spelling mistakes after verifying relevant documents like sale deed, mutation certificate issued by GHMC and copy of assessment order along with Rs.200 fee and Rs.10 stamp paper.

Prajavaani programme

A total of 122 complaints were received during the weekly Prajavaani programme held here on Monday.

Of the complaints received, 62 were resolved on the spot.