DHOBAURA, MYMENSINGH, Jan 29: A growing crisis over residential and commercial electricity meters has left consumers in Dhobaura facing months of delays, sparking allegations of mismanagement and irregularities at the local zonal office.
Residents complain that despite submitting applications online with all required documents, their requests are often cancelled unless extra payments are made.
Many allege that brokers can secure quick connections, while genuine applicants are forced to wait indefinitely. Some say they were told of "meter shortages" or "lack of wiring" as excuses to stall the process.
Frustrated consumers recently voiced their grievances directly to the office's Deputy General Manager (DGM), who assured them that irregularities would be investigated.
He said residential meters illegally used in shops and businesses would be identified and converted to commercial meters. He also promised that any harassment or malpractice in the connection process would be addressed.
Locals, however, remain sceptical. They argue that the crisis has persisted for months, eroding trust in the office's transparency and accountability. "Ordinary people are suffering, while brokers thrive," one resident said.
Consumers have demanded a thorough investigation into the allegations, clear explanations for cancelled applications, and immediate steps to ensure fair distribution of meters. They also called for swift conversion of residential meters being used commercially.
The mounting frustration has turned the Dhobaura zonal electricity office into a symbol of inefficiency, with residents urging authorities to restore order and ensure equal access to essential services.
