Flood destroyed homes, but power utility still bills victims
Summary
Flood-displaced families in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading are still being billed by the Nepal Electricity Authority, with VAT and penalties added even after their homes were destroyed. The utility says it will stop billing affected customers after complaints from victims and local officials.
Key Points
- Flood victims in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading say they continue to receive electricity bills with VAT and penalties despite losing their homes in the Bhotekoshi flood.
- Residents say ward offices issued recommendation letters to disconnect meters in destroyed houses, but the Nepal Electricity Authority has reportedly refused to accept them without police reports.
- NEA spokesperson Rajan Dhakal said the bills may have been generated automatically and that a decision has been made to stop billing affected customers.
- The August 26 Bhotekoshi flood destroyed or damaged thousands of homes and displaced large numbers of people across the river corridor.
