Power theft on rise in Kashmir; pilfers fined Rs 20 lakh

Srinagar, Dec 20 (UNI) The Jammu and Kashmir government has recovered Rs 20 lakh as fine from consumers for power theft, an official spokesman said today.

He said the Power Development Department (PDD) has intensified its drive to check power pilferage in several areas of the city.

A PDD squad made suprise check in various areas, including Nishat, Rajbagh, Jawahar Nagar, Qamarwari, Peerbagh, Chanapora, Hyderpora and Shivpora.

The department has recovered Rs 20 lakh so far during this year from the consumers for power theft, the spokesman added.

He said 740 mega watt electricity, about 20 per cent more than previous years, was being purchased this year to tide over power crisis in the Kashmir valley.

The PDD also appealed to the consumers to avoid power pilferage and strictly abide by agreement entered with the department.

UNI AG PK DS1410