Mumbai: As the monsoon season intensifies in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) is ramping up efforts to tackle an anticipated rise in power-related issues, including electric shocks, sparking, and unplanned power outages.
To ensure quick and efficient responses, BEST has activated 24/7 Fuse Control Centers across the city, offering consumers a dedicated channel to report "Off Supply" complaints.
With approximately 10 lakh consumers in Mumbai, these centers are crucial in maintaining efficient service especially during mansoon. “With heavy rains and the risk of flooding, the likelihood of electrical mishaps increases. This can lead to hazards such as electric shocks, sparking, and power outages. To prevent these risks, BEST is implementing preventive measures and deploying additional staff to ensure complaints are addressed swiftly.” said a senior officer of BEST.
The Fuse Control Centers, operational round-the-clock, serve as the first point of contact for power-related complaints. BEST is urging consumers to report any issues without delay and to keep key information handy when registering complaints.
“It is essential for consumers to provide their Consumer Number or Meter Number for faster resolution,” the official explained. These details can be found on the electricity bill — the Consumer Number is located at the top right corner, while the Meter Number is printed on the reverse side below the total amount due.
In addition to traditional reporting methods, BEST has also rolled out the “MiBest” mobile application, available for download on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app enables users to lodge complaints regarding power interruptions, electric shocks, sparking, and even fire incidents — all from their smartphones.
“For safety reasons, BEST may need to temporarily switch off the power supply in certain areas to prevent potential danger caused by floodwater. Consumers are requested to cooperate with these temporary disruptions,” the official added, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation during emergency situations.
Fuse Control Centers list | File Photo
Fuse Control Centers list | Photo
Safety Guidelines for Consumers:
Do's:
. Protect your meter cabin from rainwater by raising the height of the cabin or concreting it. If your cabin is made of wood, ensure it is suitably protected.
. Have all electrical wiring, from the meter to individual flats or premises, thoroughly checked by a Licensed Electrical Contractor. Install an Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) of the appropriate rating.
. Switch off the main power switches in your premises and meter cabin if there is water leakage or flooding. Power can only be turned back on after the issue is addressed and the electrical installation is certified safe by a Licensed Electrical Contractor or BEST staff.
. Report any sparking or electric shocks occurring in meter cabins, street lighting poles, or distribution pillars to the concerned Fuse Control Centers.
. Limit your electrical load when temporary supply is provided to your building or installation.
Don'ts:
. Never touch electrical installations with bare or wet hands, or without using safety measures like insulated gloves or wooden platforms, especially in cases of water leakage.
. Avoid touching meters, street lighting poles, or red-colored distribution pillars located on roads.
