In a major relief for electricity consumers with long-pending dues, the Uttar Pradesh government has introduced a special one-time settlement scheme offering a 100% waiver on interest along with discounts on the principal outstanding amount.
The announcement was confirmed by Sanjay Kumar Jain, Chief Engineer of Gautam Buddh Nagar, who said the scheme was designed specifically for consumers who had either never paid their electricity bills or had defaulted for an extended period.
First-of-Its-Kind Initiative for Chronic Defaulters
Speaking about the initiative, Jain said this was the first time such a comprehensive relief scheme had been rolled out.
“For the first time, a scheme was introduced in which there was a 100% waiver on interest, and even the principal outstanding amount was given a discount,” he said.
The move aims to bring thousands of defaulters back into the formal billing system while reducing long-standing revenue losses.
Scheme Implemented in Three Phases
According to the power department, the scheme was implemented in three separate phases, allowing consumers multiple opportunities to settle their dues.
Officials said the phased approach helped ensure wider participation and encouraged defaulters to clear arrears without fear of heavy penalties.
Boost to Revenue and Consumer Trust
Power department officials believe the scheme has not only helped in recovering stuck dues, but also in rebuilding trust between consumers and the electricity department.
By easing the financial burden on households and small businesses, the government expects improved payment discipline going forward.
Encouraging Response from Consumers
Authorities said the response to the scheme has been encouraging, with many long-pending cases being resolved. Officials are now evaluating its impact to decide whether similar relief measures should be introduced again in the future.
