Residents and small business owners in the Northern Division are raising concerns over the proposed electricity tariff increase, spiking their costs and putting more pressure on already struggling livelihoods.
Business owner in Seaqaqa, Jainendra Lal, says the increase in electricity tariffs would mean having to adjust the pricing of items he sells, which would directly affect his customers and further impact his business.
He explains that he would need to raise prices on items like frozen goods to cover the cost, which would likely reduce customer numbers.
Lal also points out that sugar cane farmers would be affected, as they would have to purchase farming equipment at higher prices.
Meanwhile, Seaqaqa market vendor Prathibha Kumari expresses disappointment with the proposed tariff increase and consultations.
Kumari stresses that proper consultation means officials should explain what changes are planned and then ask for feedback from the public.
Kumari suggests that FCCC officials should use loudspeakers to talk about the proposed changes clearly to the public, stressing that simply collecting views and handing out calendars is not enough given the seriousness of the issue.
Another resident of Salove, Seaqaqa, Mohammed Khalil, says he hopes the electricity tariff remains the same, as any increase would significantly challenge him during this time of rising inflation.
