Pune: MSEDCL Unearths Rs 1.59 Crores Worth Unauthorized Electricity Theft In A Single Day
Pune, 8th January 2024: In an intensive operation to curb electricity theft and reduce distribution and commercial losses, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) initiated a crackdown on power thieves across Western Maharashtra. The campaign, conducted simultaneously in Pune, Solapur, Satara, Kolhapur, and Sangli districts under the Pune Regional Division, exposed unauthorized consumption of electricity amounting to approximately Rs. 1 crore 59 lakh in 1276 locations in a single day.
Under the guidance of Pune Regional Director Ankush Nale, the crackdown targeted multiple categories, including domestic, commercial, industrial, and agricultural connections. The operation, launched on Saturday (6th), revealed direct theft of electricity worth Rs. 96 lakh 58 thousand in 869 locations. The thefts were primarily conducted through illicit hooking of electricity wires or tampering with meters.
District-wise, the unauthorized consumption was exposed in Pune district (653 places, Rs. 1 crore 21 lakh 84 thousand), Satara (151 places, Rs. 12 lakh 34 thousand), Solapur (170 places, Rs. 8 lakh 29 thousand), Kolhapur (134 places, Rs. 7 lakh 3 thousand), and Sangli district (168 places, Rs. 9 lakh 61 thousand), totalling Rs. 1 crore 59 lakh 11 thousand.
Those found guilty of electricity theft or unauthorized use are being issued fines and new electricity bills. MSEDCL emphasizes the immediate payment of these bills, warning of legal action if ignored. Section 135 of the Indian Electricity Act, 2003, stipulates fines and imprisonment of up to three years for the offence of electricity theft.
Apart from the financial repercussions, MSEDCL highlights the safety risks associated with electricity theft, emphasizing the potential for electrical accidents. The company urges individuals to obtain official electricity connections to ensure a safe power supply.
Simultaneously, MSEDCL is actively cutting off power supplies to locations with outstanding electricity bills. Inspections are being conducted to identify places where electricity is being consumed despite arrears. Criminal action is being taken against those who refuse to pay the entire amount of the electricity theft bill, including penalty charges Under Section 135.
