Odisha Govt Eases Payment Terms for Lift Irrigation Consumers’ Arrear Electricity Bills

Bhubaneswar: In a relief for farmers, the Odisha government has relaxed the time for payment of arrear electricity bills by lift irrigation consumers. This decision aims to support agricultural activities and provide financial flexibility to the state’s farmers.

According to an official press release, Barchana MLA Amar Nayak, Bhubaneswar Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, and Bijay Dal Behera met with Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo on Wednesday at his Vidhan Sabha chamber. They proposed extending the time limit for the payment of arrear electricity bills for lift irrigation consumers during the current Kharif season.

In response, Singh Deo engaged with the Director of the Agriculture Department and power distribution companies (Discoms) to address the issue. Following these discussions, it was announced that all lift irrigation consumers are now advised to pay their current electricity bills monthly. Additionally, Discoms have agreed to allow the payment of arrear electricity bills through installments.

Under the new scheme, lift irrigation consumers can clear their arrear electricity bills in up to eight installments between August 2024 and March 2025. Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo emphasized that the main objective of this initiative is to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply while offering financial relief to farmers.

For further details, consumers are encouraged to contact the Discom’s toll-free number 1912 or visit its customer care center. This move by the Odisha government reflects its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and addressing the financial challenges faced by farmers in the state.