Shillong, Jun 5: Power Minister Metbah Lyngdoh convened a meeting to address growing concerns expressed by various stakeholders who are demanding the immediate termination of a company’s contract due to inflated electricity bills and management concerns.
Lyngdoh was approached by three local MLAs—Pius Marwein, Beyondstar Kurbah, and Ollan Singh Suin—who conveyed the grievances of consumers against the SAI Computer Ltd.
Officials of the power department and the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MECL) who attended the meeting were directed to evaluate the steps to be taken to separate governmental concerns from the legal issues at hand.
The Power Minister admitted that decisions regarding these issues were expected to have been made months ago. However, due to the matter being sub judice, no resolution was reached at that time.
Despite the delay, Lyngdoh said that the government recognises the gravity of the situation and the constraints faced by consumers. Following discussions with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, the Power Minister said he was directed to proceed with necessary actions.
It may be mentioned that pressure groups from the area have issued ultimatums and staged protests to demand the immediate cancellation of the company’s contract.
The Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL) handed over electricity operations, billing, and revenue collection for the Mawsynram sub-division to SAI Computer Ltd.
Pressure groups staged protests, including demonstrations outside the residence of the Power Minister.
Residents and local headmen are heavily opposing the company due to soaring electricity bills and allegations that the company is operating without proper documents, such as a local trading license.
