Lucknow: Over 2.23 lakh electricity connections across UP have been automatically disconnected due to negative balances in smart prepaid meters, according to the UPPCL.“Out of 2,23,765 disconnected connections, supply has been restored to 76,209 consumers after they recharged their prepaid accounts,” the corporation said and urged consumers to recharge their prepaid meters as soon as possible. It also warned that if electricity is found to be used illegally on premises where connections have been disconnected, cases of power theft will be registered and legal action taken. This may also involve penalties. Under the smart meter system, the disconnection and reconnection process is fully automated. Electricity supply is automatically cut when the prepaid balance reaches zero and is restored immediately once the account is recharged. UPPCL said since the system is relatively new and many consumers are still adapting to it, a temporary relief provision has been introduced. Under this, if a consumer recharges the meter after disconnection and clears at least 50% of the negative prepaid balance, connection will be restored for three days.If the consumer fails to fully recharge or maintain a positive balance during this period, the supply will again be disconnected. Officials said this facility will be available only once to each consumer.UPPCL has advised consumers to keep their prepaid balance positive to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply.
