Ulhasnagar: Several Ulhasnagar residents are grappling with power outages following a technical glitch in newly installed smart meters. Approximately 1,500 households lost electricity suddenly, leading to widespread frustration and protests. Angry consumers gathered at the MSEDCL office near Sai Baba Temple, demanding answers as power was cut despite many having already paid their bills.

The new smart meters, which operate like prepaid mobile phones, disconnect power automatically if the balance is low. Under the previous system, customers were alerted before disconnection, but the new system offers no warning, leaving many without power, even after making payments. This has particularly affected students studying for board exams and elderly patients reliant on medical equipment.

“We have received multiple complaints, with many residents saying their power did not return even after payment,” said Bhaskar Kolhe, an Additional Engineer at MSEDCL.

Kolhe further explained that the entire system is controlled remotely from Bandra, leaving local officials with limited control over the situation.

“The issue stemmed from a major technical fault that occurred on Saturday, which prevented the system from restoring power automatically,” he added

While MSEDCL officials aim to restore power by evening, residents are furious over the lack of communication and the failure of the new technology. The power outage continues to highlight concerns about the reliability of smart meters in the area.

With students preparing for exams and vulnerable individuals facing difficulties, the situation remains unresolved, fuelling public outrage across Ulhasnagar.