Consumer bodies push for power reforms

8220;This ought to take care of allegations of tampering and enhance the safety of consumers. Steps in this direction are already being taken and the committee has requested a report be tabled regarding the same before its next meeting,8221; a member of the ECAC said.

8220;Most consumers are not aware that they can seek compensation from discoms if they are not able to meet standards of performance. Consumers are often unaware of the standards of performance SoP and hence do not approach discoms to claim compensation that is rightly theirs. In such a case, many members felt, discoms should voluntarily release compensation,8221; a stakeholder who attended SAC8217;s last meeting told Newsline.

To this end suggestions have been forwarded to the DERC to set up a computerised system that ensures that discoms voluntarily disburse such compensation.

Other measures include a recommendation for all discoms to set up a toll-free hotline.