Power tariff hike upsets trade bodies in state

Annual increase in rates affecting micro, small industries, they say

The Karnataka Small Scale Industries Association (KASSIA) has expressed disappointment over the increase in power tariffs by Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC).

According to KASSIA, the annual power tariff hikes have made it difficult for micro and small scale industries to operate in the state.

“We urge the government not to increase the tariffs for micro and small scale industries as it will cripple their functioning,” said A Padmanabha, president of KASSIA.

Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) also shared its displeasure over the tariff hike move.

“The increase in tariff adds to the people’s woes like power outages. Unscheduled power cuts have become the order of the day,” said K Ravi, senior vice-president of the FKCCI.