📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / RobbieIanMorrison
Technology
Smart Meter Rollout in Mumbai Raises Consumer Concerns
✍️ Mid-day
🗓 20 Jul 2026, 08:52 AM
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The Maharashtra government’s recent deployment of smart meters in Mumbai has sparked worries among consumers over privacy, billing accuracy, and potential data misuse.
The state of Maharashtra has begun installing smart meters across Mumbai, aiming to modernise the city’s electricity infrastructure and improve energy efficiency. The new devices automatically record consumption data and transmit it to the utility company, replacing manual meter readings.
However, many residents have expressed alarm over the technology. Concerns centre on the security of the data collected, the possibility of inaccurate readings affecting bills, and the lack of clear information about how the data will be used or shared.
The Maharashtra Energy Department has issued a statement assuring that all data will be encrypted and that consumers can request a manual audit of their bills. It also announced a helpline for residents to report discrepancies.
Consumer rights groups are urging the government to publish detailed guidelines on data protection and billing transparency before the rollout expands further.
However, many residents have expressed alarm over the technology. Concerns centre on the security of the data collected, the possibility of inaccurate readings affecting bills, and the lack of clear information about how the data will be used or shared.
The Maharashtra Energy Department has issued a statement assuring that all data will be encrypted and that consumers can request a manual audit of their bills. It also announced a helpline for residents to report discrepancies.
Consumer rights groups are urging the government to publish detailed guidelines on data protection and billing transparency before the rollout expands further.