Study Uncovers Critical Rural-Urban Disparities in Rajasthan’s Electricity Access and Quality

30 percent rural households receive less than 12 hours of electricity daily

60 percent rural population wait for more than 6 hours for electricity restoration

Jaipur, 10th July 2024 – Rural areas in Rajasthan experience up to 12 hours of electricity cuts on average per day while urban areas in the state witness significantly shorter supply cuts (0 to 6 hours daily). Moreover, close to 60 percent rural population in Rajasthan have to wait for more than 6 hours for electricity restoration post complaints whereas only 13 percent of urban consumers face similar lengthy delays. These findings were released as part of a study titled, “Understanding the Availability and Quality of Electricity Supply”, which was conducted by the Orange Tree Foundation.

Covering 12 locations (6 villages and 6 wards) across Jaipur (North), Banswara (South), and Jodhpur (West), the study was undertaken with an objective of assessing the availability and quality of electricity supply and the impact of unreliable & low-quality electricity on lives, livelihoods, and businesses. Despite achieving 100 percent electrification across the country, the rural areas still struggle to receive reliable and quality supply of electricity; negatively impacting children's education, healthcare facilities, small businesses as well as daily activities.

The report found significant disparity between rural and urban areas with only 3 percent of rural consumers getting their electricity restored within one hour of lodging a complaint, whereas around 51 percent of urban consumers experience swift restoration within one hour of registering a complaint. Additionally, around 25 percent of consumers in Rajasthan reported experiencing voltage fluctuations causing interruptions and equipment failure. Frequent power cuts and voltage fluctuations particularly affected livelihoods particularly in rural areas where access to electricity is crucial for agricultural activities and small-scale businesses.

Ms. Shobhana Tewari, Study Lead & Advisor, Orange Tree Foundation said, “The study highlighted that an overall improvement is seen in the availability and quality of supply of electricity in the last decade. Rural areas in Rajasthan have seen an increase in the supply of electricity since 2015. However, there are still many remote and rural areas where access to electricity still lacks. This divide also impacts the growth trajectory of rural vs urban areas."

Mr. D. D. Agarwal, Director, Samta Power said, “The government has been actively working to enhance the electricity supply and quality in Rajasthan. However, a significant divide exists between urban and rural areas, highlighting the need for substantial improvements in village electrification. In this digital age, where education, healthcare, and numerous other services depend on reliable internet and computer access, a continuous 24x7 electricity supply is crucial.”

Equipment breakdown due to voltage fluctuations was reported by over 60 percent of consumers in Rajasthan, particularly among urban consumers. The study also found that approximately 50 percent of consumers in Rajasthan incurred out-of-pocket expenses of around Rs.1000 to ensure stable electricity supply at their residences.

The findings of the study were released at a roundtable, “People’s View on Quality of Electricity Supply in Rajasthan” which was graced by various industry experts, academicians, and public representatives. This report serves as a vital resource for policymakers, stakeholders, and the community, aiming to bridge inherent gaps and improve the electricity supply landscape in Rajasthan.