BEST to install check-meter to tackle consumers’ complaints of inflated bills on smart meters
The BEST utility in Mumbai is launching a redressal campaign to address consumer complaints regarding inflated electricity bills following a smart meter rollout. The initiative includes on-site meter testing, check-meter installations, and help desks to resolve billing disputes.
Why it matters
This highlights the friction between infrastructure modernization and consumer trust, particularly in public utility management.
Amid growing complaints over inflated bills after the smart meter rollout, Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport (BEST) on Thursday (September 24, 2026) has launched a special redressal campaign — setting up ‘Smart Meter and Billing Help Desks’ across all its customer care wards to offer on-the-spot bill verification, on-site meter testing and check-meter installation.
BEST Officials said that this is a response to consumers’ query about the unexpected sudden increase in electricity bills following the smart meter modernisation initiative.
In July, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) initiated the replacement of smart meters within 48 hours. However, it received flak from consumers as well as unions for expensive bills and imposing to change meters.
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