We, the people of Kashmir, are losing our patience. Ever since smart meters have been installed, electricity bills have become unbearable — ₹3000 to ₹4000 per month, even with minimal usage.
This electricity is generated using our own rivers — Jhelum, Chenab, and Sindh. Massive hydropower projects operate on our land, using our water, yet we are forced to pay high prices for the power that should rightfully be ours. Why is Kashmir’s own electricity not reaching the people of Kashmir?
What hurts even more is when officials mock our pain by saying:
“If you can buy an iPhone, you can pay the bill.”
Is it a crime for a poor man to have a second-hand phone? Electricity is a basic need, not a luxury.
We demand answers from the authorities:
Why is there no public audit of smart meter readings?
Who will take responsibility for over-billing and inflated charges?
Why are the benefits of Kashmir’s hydropower not given to the people of Kashmir?
We understand your concern about inflated electricity bills after smart meter installations and the sentiment around local hydropower usage. To address over-billing, we urge you to contact the J&K Power Development Department helpline at 1912 / 18001807666 / +916006613056 or email feedback@pddjk.in. Also, submit a formal RTI for a public audit of meter data. For policy-level accountability, consider filing a grievance with the J&K Grievance Cell or the JERC for UT of J&K and Ladakh.