Gas supply to be cut for avoiding prepaid meters

The Karnaphuli Gas Distribution Company Limited (KGDCL) has announced plans to disconnect gas connections of consumers who have not yet installed prepaid meters despite applying for those.

The move comes as gas consumers have been reluctant towards installing prepaid meters, even though 1.3 lakh residential consumers initially applied for those.

Reportedly, the rising cost of pipeline installation diminished their interest. 

"We have to ensure prepaid meter installation as per government directives. Our policy clearly states that gas will be supplied through meters only. Those who refuse to install meters will have their connections severed within the next couple of months," said Md Nahid Alam, deputy general manager of KGDCL and project director of its prepaid meter installation project. 

The Tk 241 crore project for installing 1 lakh prepaid meters for KGDCL's residential consumers was approved on May 18, 2021, initially scheduled for completion by June 2023.

Later, the duration was extended for two more years till June 2025.

According to sources, with no option for further extension, the company is being compelled to take a strict stance against consumers based on ministry decisions. 

However, before installing the prepaid meter, consumers must bear the cost of installing a separate pipeline from the riser to the kitchen.

Depending on the building's structure, the cost may range from Tk 4,000-12,000 per stove.

"Prepaid meters will save gas bills, which is fine. But the tenant pays the bill. As a homeowner, how do I benefit? On top of that, I have to spend extra to install a new line, and then there will be a monthly meter rental fee as well," said Motiur Rahman, a resident of Halishahar area of the port city.

Another consumer from Agrabad said it is not possible for him to spend so much money for installing meters with separate lines from the riser for the 12 apartments that he owns.

Officials informed that 73,400 of the 1 lakh meters allocated for the second phase have been installed so far.

However, the remaining applicants have shown little interest regarding prepaid meter installation despite regular newspaper advertisements, SMS notifications, letters, and even in-person visits by project officials to draw their attention. 

Asked, Nahid Alam said 60,000 meters were installed in the first phase, and the second phase is ongoing for another 1 lakh consumers. He said plans are underway to gradually bring other consumers under the prepaid metering system.

Approximately 6 lakh prepaid meters are required for all residential consumers in areas under KGDCL, he added.