Power Distribution Wing Cannot Waive Electricity Bills: KPDCL Clarifies
Srinagar, December 14 — Shabir Ahmad Khan, Superintending Engineer of the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), today clarified that the power distribution wing lacks any authority to excuse or exempt electricity bills. Billing is handled through a centralized online system, and payments collected are deposited directly into the government treasury.
In response to concerns about rising electricity charges and the recent gathering of consumers at Lok Adalat, Khan told Kashmir News Trust that power billing across all 67 subdivisions in Kashmir is fully digitized and transparent. He noted that KPDCL serves over 5.2 million customers, and all consumer data is maintained in an online billing platform that is publicly accessible.
"The distribution wing is responsible for delivering electricity and issuing bills strictly for the power supplied. We have a robust billing framework, and disconnections follow the established rules when bills remain unpaid," Khan stated.
He emphasized that KPDCL does not generate electricity. "The government procures power and distributes it through our network. Our role is to distribute electricity, generate invoices, and collect payments from consumers. The funds do not stay with us; they go straight to the government treasury," he explained.
Khan also noted that since the department does not retain revenue, it does not have the authority to grant exemptions. "Only the government can declare any waivers or exemptions. Occasionally, relief schemes are introduced by the government," he added.
Referring to prior relief efforts, Khan pointed to an amnesty scheme previously launched by the Power Development Department, which benefited many consumers. He added that the department can reduce late payment surcharges but cannot alter the principal amount billed.
"When payments are delayed, the department must pay interest to power suppliers. If bills are paid on time, there is no surcharge," Khan explained.
He recalled that in 2022 the government reviewed the situation and rolled out a plan allowing consumers to settle dues in 12 installments, excluding any late payment surcharge, as a relief measure.
Regarding the recent approach by some consumers to Lok Adalat, Khan said the department was uncertain about the purpose of approaching the forum. "Lok Adalats are meant to resolve disputes, not to grant amnesty or exemptions on electricity bills," he clarified.
KPDCL reiterated that timely bill payment is essential to ensure uninterrupted power supply and the financial health of the system. Consumers are urged to take advantage of government schemes as they are announced and to clear dues within the specified timelines.
