The UT electricity department has brought a sense of immense relief to the residents of the city by transitioning all its consumer services to an online platform. This move aligns with the directives of the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC).

The various services that can now be accessed online encompass the installation of new connections, modifications in the registered consumer's name, adjustments in load capacity (both enhancements and reductions), and obtaining permission for the setup of diesel generator (DG) sets.

City residents now have the convenience of applying for these services from their homes, utilising the official website of the department: https://chdengineering.gov.in/electricity-dept/apply-services.

Chandigarh has a total of approximately 2.47 lakh power consumers. Out of this number, around 2.14 lakh consumers, accounting for roughly 87%, fall under the domestic category.

CB Ojha, the chief engineer of UT, mentioned, "With the availability of online services, the need for enduring long queues is eradicated for consumers. Applicants have the facility to digitally submit their requests from any location and directly upload the necessary documents on the website. In case of any deficiencies in the provided documents, consumers will receive intimation through email and text notifications."

The option for online bill payment is already in operation. Any grievances related to power services can be registered through the Citizen Facilitation Centre at 0172-463-9999, which is accessible round the clock for all sectors and villages within the city.

Looking forward, the UT administration is preparing to reengage with the Union ministry regarding the smart meter initiative. This endeavour follows nine months subsequent to the Union ministry of home affairs (MHA) discontinuing the smart electricity meter project for the city due to the privatisation of the UT power department.

In April of the current year, JERC issued a directive to the electricity division of the UT engineering department, urging the swift implementation of smart electricity meters as a top priority.

A senior official from the electricity department conveyed their intention to reopen discussions on this matter with the ministry.

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