Most love tariff cut, some express reservations

 With the Delhi government announcing to halve the power tariff for up to 400 units per month, Delhiites expressed satisfaction in electing the “right party” to power. Welcoming the move, most people said that they were happy that the party had kept its promises made during electioneering. However, a few expressed reservations about the subsidies.

The AAP had banked on its victory in the Capital on the agenda of cheaper rates for electricity and free water. On Wednesday, the party also announced that 20,000 litres of water would be supplied free to Delhi's metered households March 1 onwards – executing its two “big” poll promises.
“Announcement of subsidy on water, power will change the lives of citizens. It will improve the standard of living of several middle-class households. AAP has fulfilled its promises today and I am happy that I had voted for the AAP,” said 55-year-old Rajender Sharma. Sharma is a school teacher.

Nishant Shekhar, a resident of Dwarka, rued about the “inflating bills” he has been receiving for the past several months now. “For a middle-class person like me it was difficult to manage paying bills at a such a high tariff rate. During the 49 days of AAP, I realised only a party like this can make a difference in lives of aam qadmi. So voting for AAP this time was a calculated decision for everybody in my family,” said Shekhar.

A consumer will have to pay Rs 2 per unit for up to 200 units a month against the current rate of Rs 4 per unit.

However, consumers will be charged full rates from zero base if the electricity consumption crosses 400 units. The same rule would apply to the water consumption.

“It is not a good idea to give subsidies at this rate as money spent on subsidies will halt development projects,” said Prashant Kumar, a businessperson in West Delhi.
A few also had reservations about the water subsidy being provided by the government.
“The water subsidy will only be applicable to those who have metered connections. Several colonies in Delhi lack such connections. What about them?” said Hasan Khan. A documentary filmmaker, Hasan is a resident of Nizamuddin east.