Smart meters: Awareness imperative

The process to install smart meters in Srinagar and Jammu areas are going on while the people, especially in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir are persistently taking the streets to demand authorities not to install such meters after many people have complained that the electricity bills they are receiving was shocking as the amount was too high. There is no let up in the protests, which indicates that the people are less informed about the smart meters and they lack even the basic awareness in this regard. The smart metering across J&K is one among the measures the government has taken towards providing round-the-clock electricity to the consumers here, who are presently witnessing inadequate electricity supply. Such measures are imperative, but the people at the first place must be made aware and they should be informed about the facts with regard to what they are supposed to get after its installation. There is a need to create awareness among the consumers so that they can personally differentiate between the good and the bad for them. The people here have always extended their support to the government, but the lack of awareness is the major issue that needs to be put to an end and also would help in ensuring a smooth installation process on the ground. The government is expecting to complete the installation process across Kashmir by next two years, but if the situation continues, it will delay the installation process and also push the deadline further.