Report: Ishtiyaq Kar
Srinagar, May 05: Continuing its relentless campaign against power theft, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has maintained a consistent series of late-night and early morning raids across Srinagar and other districts. Each day, numerous consumers are caught red-handed engaging in illegal practices such as hooking, highlighting the pervasive nature of the issue.
KPDCL’s social media platforms are inundated with videos and photos documenting instances where consumers have been apprehended stealing electricity. These visuals serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address rampant power theft in the region.
Driven by concerns over the widespread prevalence of power theft, especially mid-span hooking, KPDCL has intensified its enforcement measures to safeguard the integrity of the power distribution system. Technical upgrades, such as replacing bare conductors with Aerial Bunched Cables, are being implemented to deter hooking. Furthermore, a comprehensive enforcement drive is underway to eradicate power pilferage, with strict legal actions promised against offenders under Section 135 of the Electricity Act.
Despite widespread consumer support for KPDCL’s crackdown on power theft, concerns persist regarding persistent power shortages in the region. However the KPDCL late last night provided an update on the damage to region’s power infrastructure and its consequent effect on the power supply, following the catastrophic incident of land subsidence in district Ramban on the evening of April 25th, 2024.
To raise public awareness and garner cooperation from the community, KPDCL actively shares videos showcasing instances of power theft on social media.
During inspections, senior officials have uncovered alarming findings, revealing cases where consumers paying nominal bills were discovered to be consuming electricity illegally at rates ten times higher. As KPDCL intensifies its efforts, the battle against power theft in Kashmir persists, with the ultimate goal of restoring integrity to the power distribution system and ensuring equitable access to electricity for all residents.
