UP: Smart meter rollout on hold pending technical committee report

During a review meeting at Shakti Bhawan in Lucknow, Energy and Urban Development Minister AK Sharma announced that the replacement of conventional electricity meters with smart meters in Uttar Pradesh has been put on hold until a technical committee submits its report and its findings are examined. The minister outlined consumer-friendly measures: for areas with smart meters already installed, a grace period of about 15 days for conversion and an additional 30 days (about 45 days total) during which no electricity connection will be disconnected; if the balance reaches zero, supply will not be disrupted for up to three days or until ₹200 of usage. A five-tier SMS alert system will notify consumers at 30%, 10%, zero balance, one day before disconnection, and after disconnection. No connections will be disconnected on Sundays or holidays even if the balance is negative. The minister urged uninterrupted power supply during the summer, prompt transformer replacement, and quick handling of loose wires and sparking, with maintenance expedited and disconnections followed up by phone calls to resolve grievances. Consumer satisfaction and accountability were emphasized.