CPI(M) Protest Blocks Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway Over Smart Meters

A large protest led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] brought traffic on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Highway to a standstill at Charoti Naka in Dahanu on Thursday.

The protest was against the installation of smart electricity meters and complaints of unusually high power bills.

According to the organisers, more than 35,000 people participated in the agitation, raising concerns over the forced installation of smart meters and steep increases in electricity bills.

Several organisations from Thane and Palghar districts participated in the demonstration, including the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), and Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI).

Despite heavy rainfall, protesters continued their agitation and blocked the highway for nearly three hours.

A large police contingent was deployed at Charoti to maintain law and order and regulate traffic in the area.

The protesters demanded that the authorities address complaints related to inflated electricity bills and reconsider the installation of smart meters.

CPI(M) leaders alleged that the smart-meter programme was adversely affecting ordinary electricity consumers and demanded that meters already installed be removed.

The agitation was withdrawn after electricity distribution officials gave a written assurance to address the grievances raised by the protesters.

The assurance states that a 15-day special drive will be conducted at electricity offices across the district from September 11 to examine complaints regarding increased bills and take appropriate corrective action wherever required.

The protest was addressed and led by CPI(M) Polit Bureau member Dr. Ashok Dhawale, Central Committee member and MLA Vinod Nikole, and District Secretary Kiran Gahala, among others.

The issue of smart meters and high power bills has been a concern for many residents in the area, and the protest highlights the need for the authorities to address these grievances.

The CPI(M) and other participating organisations have been vocal about the need for affordable and reliable electricity supply, and the protest is a culmination of their efforts to bring attention to the issue.

The written assurance given by the electricity distribution officials is a positive step towards resolving the issue, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold in the coming days.

The protest has brought attention to the plight of residents in the area who are struggling with high power bills, and it is hoped that the authorities will take concrete steps to address their concerns.