Power dues settlement scheme nets 647cr, deadline pushed to Mar 31

Bhopal: The state's power dues settlement drive has recovered over Rs 647 crore in principal while waiving surcharge worth Rs 290 crore, with authorities extending the second phase of the ‘Samadhan Yojana 2025-26' till March 31.Officials of Madhya Pradesh Madhya Kshetra Vidyut Vitaran Company said that the scheme, launched on Nov 3 last year, has seen a strong response from defaulting consumers. So far, over 6.78 lakh consumers have registered under the scheme and availed its benefits.Managing Director Rishi Garg urged consumers with dues pending for more than three months to take advantage of the extended second phase by making a lump sum payment and availing up to 90 per cent surcharge waiver.Officials said the scheme has proved beneficial for consumers struggling to clear dues due to accumulated surcharge, offering them an opportunity to settle pending bills at concessional rates. Under the second phase, consumers can avail 70 to 90 per cent rebate on surcharge for one-time payments, while those opting for instalments can get 50 to 60 per cent relief.The scheme aims to encourage early settlement of pending electricity bills by offering higher rebates for lump sum payments. Consumers can register online through the company's portal, mobile app, common service centres, and MP Online kiosks.Domestic and agricultural consumers are required to deposit 10 per cent of the outstanding amount at the time of registration, while non-domestic and industrial consumers need to pay 25 per cent to avail the scheme benefits. tnn