A Nagpur consumer commission has ordered the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) to install a solar pump for a farmer who paid the deposit in 2019 but faced multiple hindrances in receiving the connection.
The commission also directed MSEDCL to compensate the farmer for mental anguish caused by their negligence, while MSEDCL claimed the farmer opted out.
Key Highlights:
- Farmer paid Rs 16,560 for solar pump in 2019.
- Waited over 7 years for MSEDCL to provide connection.
- Commission orders MSEDCL to install pump within 60 days and compensate Rs 35,000.
Context: Delayed Solar Pump Installation
The farmer, who had paid the deposit in 2019, faced multiple hindrances in receiving the connection. The commission found evidence that indicated the farmer had not opted out of the scheme, contradicting MSEDCL’s claim.
**The commission’s order** comes as a relief to the farmer, who had been waiting for over 7 years for the solar pump installation. The compensation of Rs 35,000 for mental anguish is also a significant development.
Response: MSEDCL’s Negligence
**MSEDCL’s negligence** has been widely criticized in the past, with several instances of delayed or denied connections to farmers. The commission’s order is a wake-up call for the company to improve its services.
**”We are glad that the commission has taken cognizance of our complaint and ordered MSEDCL to install the solar pump within 60 days,”** said the farmer.
Forward Context: The commission’s order is a significant step towards ensuring that farmers receive their due services in a timely manner. MSEDCL must now ensure that the solar pump is installed within the stipulated timeframe and compensate the farmer as ordered.