Srinagar: KPDCL Warns Against Power Theft, Conducts Inspections

Srinagar, Dec 2: Authorities in Kashmir have issued a stern warning to electricity consumers against engaging in power theft, including hooking, bypassing meters, and exceeding overload. The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has taken strict measures to combat large-scale power pilferage and improve bill deposits by defaulting consumers.

Extensive Inspections and Disconnections

In the last 10 days of November, the KPDCL conducted 10,465 inspections, resulting in the disconnection of over 11,000 power consumers. The corporation has also imposed a penalty of Rs 1.03 crore on consumers found involved in power theft during this period. Additionally, 995 connections were regularized, and 2,120 KW load was added.

Highest Revenue Collection

The KPDCL achieved a significant revenue collection of Rs 85.24 crore, including power receipts, in the same period. The highest remittances of Rs 16.42 crore were recorded on November 28 alone.

Rampant Power Theft

The spokesperson for KPDCL confirmed the prevalence of rampant hooking of lines on bare conductors in metered areas and excessive energy use beyond the agreed load by flat-rated consumers across the Kashmir division. The corporation has identified Ganderbal circle as having conducted the highest number of inspections (2,945), followed by Sopore (2,048), Srinagar circle II (1,950), Pulwama (1,528), Bijbehara (1,004), and Srinagar Circle I (990).

Strict Measures Against Defaulters

To address the issue of power theft, the KPDCL has disconnected the power supply of 11,238 consumers who had pending energy dues exceeding three months. This includes 7,828 domestic, 2,979 commercial, and 346 industrial consumers. The corporation has assured consumers that it will strictly adhere to the power curtailment schedule following the additional allocation of power to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir by the central government.

Warning Against Power Theft

Emphasizing the need for judicious use of power, the spokesperson warned consumers to refrain from hooking, bypassing meters, and exceeding overload. Failure to comply with these regulations will result in criminal charges being filed under the provisions of the Electricity Act. The KPDCL has also announced plans to share details of consumers with pending energy dues in lakhs and expose those who illegally use power. Additionally, FIRs will be lodged against individuals who physically assault KPDCL staff while performing their official duties.

Action Against Commercial Consumers

The KPDCL has also issued a warning to commercial consumers, including hotels, malls, and other business outlets, who have been found involved in tampering with meters. The Central Inspection Squad of KPDCL has caught several such consumers red-handed, and strict action will be taken against them.

The KPDCL's efforts to combat power theft and improve revenue collection are aimed at ensuring a reliable and efficient power supply for all consumers in Kashmir. By taking strict measures against defaulters and promoting responsible energy use, the corporation hopes to bring about a positive change in the power sector.