Haryana Industries Protest Against 75% Increase In Fixed Power Charges

Chandigarh, July 29 (KNN) Industrial associations across Haryana have launched a united protest against the recent increase in power tariffs, calling it financially burdensome and potentially detrimental to business operations. 

The Confederation of Haryana Industrial Associations (CHIA) convened a meeting on July 24, where representatives from 24 industrial hubs—including Gurgaon, Bahadurgarh, Rewari, Sohna, Rohtak, Karnal, Faridabad, Rai, and Kundli—voiced strong opposition to the new electricity charges.

The primary concern stems from the rise in fixed charges for industrial users—from Rs 165 to Rs 290 per kVA per month—implemented in April. 

This Rs 125 hike, industry leaders argue, translates into a significant monthly cost increase, particularly for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 

Small businesses may now pay around Rs 15,000 more each month, while mid-sized units could face additional costs exceeding Rs 40,000.

According to CHIA estimates, the cumulative financial impact on the state's industry is projected to exceed Rs 2,100 crore annually—Rs 1,195 crore under Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (DHBVN) and approximately Rs 950 crore under Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN).

Industrialists contend that the tariff hikes are disproportionate, especially when compared to the benefits extended to other sectors, such as free electricity. 

They have demanded urgent intervention from both the Haryana government and the Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC). 

In their view, the decision-making process lacked adequate consultation, with industry stakeholders given insufficient opportunity to present objections before the revised rates were enforced.

Deepak Maini, Chairperson, Progressive Federation of Trade and Industry (PFTI), described the tariff hike as ‘unjustified’, stating that it directly threatens the long-term sustainability of industries in the region. 

Echoing these concerns, Col Raj Singla and Ashok Kohli from the Chamber of Industries, Udyog Vihar, Gurgaon, questioned the credibility of the Annual Revenue Requirement (ARR) reports submitted by the power distribution companies. 

They noted inconsistencies in financial disclosures, pointing out that companies reporting profits earlier are now claiming losses without clear justification.

CHIA also called for the privatisation of electricity distribution in industrial zones, accusing DHBVN and UHBVN of failing to ensure uninterrupted 24x7 power supply.

As discontent grows, the state’s industrial sector awaits a regulatory response to what many view as a serious challenge to enterprise viability in Haryana.

(KNN Bureau)