Employees of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB) have raised a red flag over a recent policy reversal by the state government, warning that it could lead to a significant increase in electricity bills for consumers across the state. The move has sparked concerns among the workforce and the public alike, who fear the financial burden of higher power costs.
What is the Policy Flip-Flop?
The core of the dispute lies in the government's decision to reportedly backtrack on a previously established policy framework. According to the protesting employees, the state administration had earlier decided to procure power from HPSEB Ltd. at a rate of Rs. 4.50 per unit. This arrangement was seen as a stable mechanism for managing the state's power needs.
However, the employees now allege that the government has made a sudden U-turn. The new directive, they claim, instructs the electricity board to purchase power from the open market instead. This shift is problematic because market rates are volatile and often higher. The employees argue that this will inevitably increase the per-unit cost of electricity, a burden that will be passed on to the common consumer in the form of heftier bills.
Employee Unions Voice Strong Opposition
The decision has not gone down well with the HPSEB workforce, represented by the HPSEB Employees Union and the HPSEB Engineers Union. These unions have been vocal in their criticism, stating that the policy change lacks foresight and will hurt the people of Himachal Pradesh.
Union leaders have pointed out that the state-owned utility is capable of meeting a substantial portion of the demand. By sidelining it in favor of costlier market purchases, the government is undermining its own asset and making electricity more expensive. The employees have formally flagged this issue to the authorities, demanding a reconsideration of the decision to prevent an unnecessary tariff hike.
Potential Consequences for Himachal Residents
If the government proceeds with the plan to source more power from the open market, the immediate and most palpable impact will be on the monthly electricity expenses of households, businesses, and industries. Himachal Pradesh, known for its hydropower generation, could see its residents paying more for a resource the state produces.
This situation also puts the financial health of the HPSEB under strain. Reduced procurement from the state utility affects its revenue and operational viability. The employee unions have emphasized that this move contradicts the principles of providing affordable and reliable power to the public, which is a fundamental service.
The protest by the electricity board staff highlights a growing tension between policy decisions and their on-ground implications. As the debate continues, consumers in Himachal are left anxious about the prospect of rising electricity costs, awaiting a clear resolution from the state government.
