Residents of Bashayer Al-Khair in Gheit El-Anab, Alexandria, are facing an electricity crisis after 1835 prepaid meters stopped working. The meters, which have been in use for around 10 years, suddenly stopped accepting recharge cards, leaving residents without power. The issue arose when the Egyptian Electricity Company for Alexandria implemented a new system, rendering the old meters obsolete.
The residents were informed by company technicians that they need to replace the old meters with new coded meters, which will cost around 3,000 Egyptian pounds per unit. Some residents have already paid the amount, while others are struggling to afford the cost. The new meters require a one-time payment or a monthly installment of 345 pounds.
The residents are unhappy with the decision, arguing that the old meters are still in good condition and should not be replaced. They claim that the company is passing on the cost to them, which they cannot afford, especially given the current economic difficulties. The issue has affected all residents of Bashayer Al-Khair, with some already replacing their meters and others still waiting.
According to Ahmed Abdeljawad Al-Sweify, a resident of Bashayer Al-Khair, the new meters are not a necessity, and the company should bear the cost of replacement. He added that some residents have already paid the 3,000 pounds, while others are struggling to make ends meet. The crisis has left residents frustrated and worried about their electricity supply.
In response to the issue, MP Mohamed Gabr, representing the Karamous and Gheit El-Anab district, has submitted a request for information to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Electricity. The request seeks clarification on the company's decision to replace the meters and the financial burden it places on residents. Gabr argued that the new meters are not necessary, as the old ones are still functional.
The Egyptian Electricity Company for Alexandria has denied receiving any complaints from residents regarding the issue. However, residents claim that they have submitted complaints, which have been ignored. The company's response has only added to the frustration, with residents calling for a resolution to the crisis.
The issue highlights the challenges faced by Egyptian residents in accessing basic services, such as electricity. The replacement of prepaid meters has left many residents struggling to afford the cost, and the company's response has only exacerbated the problem. The crisis is likely to continue until a resolution is reached between the residents, the company, and the government.
Key points
- The Egyptian Electricity Company for Alexandria has stopped 1835 prepaid meters in Gheit El-Anab, affecting residents who rely on them for electricity.
