Ganderbal,Mar 16: Residents from various localities, including Gojar Pati, Sumbal Bala, of Sub Division Kangan, staged a silent protest on Saturday, decrying the sudden escalation in electricity tariffs.
According to aggrieved locals, the Power Development Department (PDD) suddenly implemented tariff hikes, resulting in exorbitant monthly bills ranging from 800 to 1300 rupees. Expressing their frustration, residents accused PDD officials of imposing inflated charges without prior consultation or justification.
The silent protest also held at Kangan Rest House, where demonstrators voiced their demand for an immediate rollback of the tariff hike. Many protesters highlighted the predominantly low-income status of the community, emphasizing the disproportionate financial burden imposed by the escalated tariffs.
Noorani, a local resident, asserting that the community would persist with their silent demonstration until their demands are met. He underscored the shock experienced by consumers, particularly amidst Ramadhan and the harsh winter months, exacerbated by the department’s failure to ensure consistent power supply.
He questioned how those in the poor category could afford to pay such a substantial amount.
Seeking redressal, protesters appealed to the Lieutenant Governor’s Administration to intervene and address the matter on Priority basis.
