JOIN USBescom to simplify procedure for new power connections
Obtaining a new power connection could be much easy if the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) has its way. Bescom will constitute a panel to suggest simplification of the process.
The process, at present, usually takes close to a week, requires much paper work and running around various officials.
For example, to change the name of the owner of an electrical installation, the consumer needs to submit an indemnity bond, a notarised title deed for the property along with an application. An official from the Bescom will then conduct a spot inspection before asking the consumer to pay requisite fee.
Decision over panel
The Bescom, at its meeting on March 28 decided to form a panel to look at the ways of simplying the process. It will also form sub-committees, comprising a consumer and an engineer, to ascertain the feasibility of the simplified process. A draft of the proposed simplified procedure will have to be submitted by April 3.
The Bescom has also chalked out measures to strengthen its grievance redressal mechanism. The chairperson of the Bescom Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum will be relieved of the responsibility of looking into administrative matters.
New forum chief
A chief engineer will be appointed as the chairperson of the Forum which will be provided with a separate secretarial staff. The Forum will have to dispose of consumer complaints within 60 days.
The grievances will be forwarded to the managing director of the Bescom if they are not addressed within the stipulated deadline.
The Forum will have to sit once a week and admit complaints as and when they are filed by the consumers.