Sachin Malik: Uttar Pradesh Urban Development and Energy Minister A.K. Sharma, late last night, conducted an extensive Public hearing through the “Sambhav” online grievance redressal system at the Multipurpose Building Mangalam in Mau district, Setting a strong example of transparent, accountable and responsive governance in the State.
During the session, over 100 complainants and consumers from various districts of the state directly Presented their issues before the Minister and senior officials. Their grievances were addressed Promptly and effectively on the spot.
Through the “Sambhav” system, Complainants and officials connect face-to-face in a virtual format, which not only enhances transparency but also eliminates unnecessary delays in resolving issues. The Energy Minister made it Clear that negligence in matters related to Public interest will not be tolerated at any level.
During the hearing, strict and immediate actions were ordered in several serious cases. In Barabanki, over an excessively inflated estimate, Minister Sharma directed the removal of the concerned lineman, immediate suspension of the Junior Engineer (JE), and action under Rule 10 along with transfer Proceedings against the Executive Engineer.
Similarly, instructions were issued to take strict action against erring officials in districts including Azamgarh, Bareilly and Agra.
In Maharajganj, despite the submission of the required estimate, an electricity connection was not Provided, leading the Minister to order suspension of the responsible officer. In cases from Bareilly and Meerut, it was reiterated that Providing timely services to consumers is the department Primary Responsibility.
In Varanasi, regarding the case of senior journalist Rajesh Rai, the Minister directed that the matter be resolved Promptly after obtaining legal opinion. In Unnao, special attention was given to billing issues related to smart meters, with instructions to ensure accurate and timely billing for all Consumers.
The Minister also directed officials to conduct on-site inspections and take concrete corrective measures to strengthen the Power supply systems in Jhansi, Kushinagar, Siddharthnagar and Mathura. He emphasized that in religious and high-footfall areas like Mathura, the Electricity system must remain uninterrupted and Well-Managed.
At the conclusion of the Public hearing, A.K. Sharma instructed officials to ensure electricity supply as Per the summer roster, completely stop unnecessary Power cuts during evening hours and launch a widespread Public awareness campaign to address misconceptions regarding Smart Meters.
He further emphasized that increasing engagement with consumers and ensuring Prompt resolution of their issues must remain the department top Priority.
On this occasion, a large number of complainants appreciated the “Sambhav” initiative, describing it as a highly effective and trustworthy Platform serving Public interest and expressed gratitude to the Energy Minister.
The Program was attended by Chairman Ashish Goyal, MD UPPCL Pankaj Kumar, MD Transmission Mayur Maheshwari, MD of Purvanchal Vidyut Distribution Nigam Shambhu Kumar, along with Senior officials from all DISCOM and district-level officers who Participated both virtually and Physically.
