The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has decided to provide up to Rs 1 million in relief to employees or members of the public who lose their lives in electrical accidents. The decision was made during the NEA’s 995th Board meeting chaired by Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Dipak Khadka.

Previously, NEA policy allowed a maximum of Rs 500,000 in relief for employees and offered employment to their families across three levels. Members of the general public were also eligible for up to Rs 500,000.

The latest meeting, however, increased this amount to Rs 1 million for all victims. Minister Khadka also directed officials to ensure that relief payments are disbursed promptly and without delay.

The NEA Board meeting also endorsed amendments to the Electricity Distribution Regulations 2078, aiming to improve the consumer appeals process. Notably, the deposit required when filing an appeal on disputed electricity charges has been reduced from 25 percent to 5 percent.

The NEA has received a high volume of complaints from consumers dissatisfied with electricity bills and the revised rule is expected to ease the financial burden and restore public confidence in the NEA.

In another significant move, the Board decided not to renew contracts with service providers that failed to deliver quality services, despite having agreements with the NEA. In areas connected to the national grid, the NEA will now directly provide services. Contracts with competent service providers will be extended based on performance evaluations and needs.

Additionally, the NEA Board approved the formation of a four-member Administrative Review Committee led by the Secretary of the Ministry of Energy. Other members include the NEA’s Deputy Executive Director, a power sector expert from the Department of Electricity Development and the NEA’s Executive Director, who will serve as member-secretary.

The committee is tasked with promoting transparency and accountability in the authority’s decision-making processes. “These are important reforms aimed at making the NEA more responsive and people-focused,” said Board member Shyam Kishor Yadav, emphasizing that consumers remain at the center of the authority’s ongoing improvements.