The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) is steadfast in its efforts to curb electricity theft, aiming to mitigate distribution losses and financial irregularities. In a proactive move, MSEDCL revealed instances of electricity theft and unauthorized usage amounting to a staggering Rs 2,45,63,000 in 766 cases across Pune circle, with a substantial recovery of Rs 74,30,000 from 237 of these cases during the month of September 2023.
Nishikant Raut, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of MSEDCL Pune, underlined the risks associated with electricity theft, emphasizing the potential for electrical accidents and the legal consequences, including imprisonment, for such offenses. He encouraged individuals to secure their electricity supply through official connections, assuring that Mahavitaran is dedicated to providing safe and legitimate electricity connections.
Further insights provided by Raut highlighted the extensive scope of action against electricity theft across Pune circle, encompassing Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad city, and multiple talukas including Mulshi, Velhe, Haveli, Maval, Khed, Junnar, and Ambegaon. In September 2023, these efforts unveiled instances of electricity theft amounting to Rs 1,66,69,000 in 538 locations.
Legal action is being pursued against these perpetrators under section 135 of the Indian Electricity Act 2003. They are being billed for their electricity consumption, along with corresponding penalties. Consequently, Rs 56,07,000 has been recovered from 187 cases.
Additionally, unauthorized electricity consumption worth Rs 78,94,000 was detected in 183 locations, leading to punitive actions under section 126. In 50 cases, a significant sum of Rs 18,23,000 has been recuperated.
For those engaged in electricity theft, MSEDCL is initiating criminal proceedings against those who fail to remit the complete amount of their electricity bill, which includes the charges for stolen electricity along with penalties. Notably, in Pune Circle, 13 individuals who tampered with hooks and meters to steal electricity are now facing criminal charges.
Moreover, if MSEDCL identifies instances where defaulters, after disconnection of their electricity supply, are accessing electricity illicitly from neighbors or other sources using makeshift wiring or cables, they are met with consequences as per Section 135/138 of the Indian Electricity Act 2003. In view of this, all defaulters are urged to promptly settle their overdue electricity bills and prevent the extreme measure of electricity supply disconnection.
