Nagpur: Amid concerns and misinformation surrounding the rollout of smart electricity meters in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) conducted a large-scale awareness campaign across the Nagpur Zone to educate consumers about the technology and address grievances related to electricity bills.

As part of the initiative, 200 awareness camps were organised on Wednesday across various subdivisions in Nagpur and Wardha districts, where officials interacted directly with consumers, clarified misconceptions about smart meters, and resolved a majority of complaints related to allegedly high electricity bills.

927 Complaints Resolved on the Spot

According to MSEDCL, the camps received 1,054 complaints regarding increased electricity bills. Of these, 927 complaints were resolved immediately.

The complaint-wise breakup is as follows:

• Nagpur Rural Circle: 393 complaints received; all 393 resolved
• Nagpur City Circle: 556 complaints received; 444 resolved
• Wardha Circle: 105 complaints received; 90 resolved

In addition to billing-related issues, officials also received 162 other consumer complaints, all of which were resolved during the camps.

Overall, 7,726 consumers visited the awareness camps and received guidance from MSEDCL officials.

Officials Clarify Smart Meter Misconceptions

The awareness drive comes at a time when some residents have expressed concerns that smart meters could lead to inflated electricity bills, reduce consumer control over electricity usage, or affect power supply.

To address these concerns, MSEDCL officials explained the working mechanism of smart meters, their technical features, transparent billing process, and how consumers can monitor and manage their electricity consumption more effectively.

Officials also conducted live demonstrations of smart meters, allowing consumers to understand their functioning firsthand and ask questions directly.

Senior Officials Participate

The campaign was led by Chief Engineer Naik, along with Superintending Engineers Sanjay Wakde (Nagpur Rural), Prafull Lande (Nagpur City), and Smita Parkhi (Wardha), who personally interacted with consumers during the camps.

They said smart meters ensure accurate meter readings, transparent billing, and better control over electricity consumption, while urging citizens not to believe rumours or misinformation.

Consumers were advised to contact their nearest MSEDCL office directly if they have any doubts or complaints regarding smart meters or electricity bills.

More Awareness Drives Planned

MSEDCL said engineers, technical staff, and other officials from across the Nagpur Zone actively participated in the campaign. The power utility added that similar awareness programmes will continue in the future to dispel misconceptions about smart meters and ensure prompt resolution of consumer grievances.