Consumers in Matlab Uttar, Chandpur, have alleged that they are receiving unusually high or “ghost” electricity bills despite severe load shedding. The report, published on August 12, says customers face hardship and dissatisfaction as power outages during hot weather coincide with higher bills. Residents allege that abnormal bills have been issued for the past two months even though electricity supply has remained limited.

Dulal Darji of Islamabad village said his household bill, previously below Tk2,000 a month, reached Tk5,000 in July. Nayan Das of Sujatpur said his bill rose from Tk300–350 to Tk650. Small business owner Ankan Das said his shop bill increased from Tk1,300–1,400 to Tk2,200, while electricity is unavailable for about 18 hours in a day.

Customers allege bills are prepared and distributed without meter readings, and claim nearly 80 percent of consumers are facing harassment. They also allege harassment when contacting the Matlab Uttar zonal office. Chandpur Palli Bidyut Samity (2) AGM Md Naim said load shedding results from receiving 10–12 megawatts against demand of 27 megawatts, and maintained that bills reflect customers’ actual usage.