Residents of Telaulim have joined villagers from Navelim in opposing the proposed replacement of existing electricity meters with prepaid or smart meters, raising concerns over financial burden and inadequate transparency in the decision-making process.
Locals pointed out that the current electricity meters were installed just three years ago, are functioning efficiently, and their cost is already being recovered through monthly power bills. They argued that replacing these meters prematurely would place an unnecessary financial strain on consumers.
Villagers also expressed apprehensions that smart meters could be remotely controlled or manipulated, potentially resulting in inflated electricity bills. Some residents alleged that the proposed move could primarily benefit corporate interests rather than consumers.
While not opposing technological upgrades in principle, the villagers said only defective or non-functional meters should be replaced. They have demanded public consultations and greater clarity from authorities before implementing the smart meter system across Goa.
The residents stressed that transparency and public participation are essential before any large-scale changes to the state’s electricity metering system are undertaken.
