No leniency for even first-time power thieves: MSEDCL

Mumbai, Dec 22 (UNI) In a bid to intensify its drive to curb power theft in the state, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has said direct action will be taken in case of power thefts where connected load is more than three KW and the amount is Rs 20,000 or more.

MSEDCL managing director Ajay Bhushan Pandey told reporters here that the Electricity Act allows for settling the matter after obtaining a fine from the guilty if it was the first offence.

Henceforth, however, if the power theft is over three KW of connected load or amounts to Rs 20,000 or more, the MSEDCL will lodge an FIR against the accused directly even if it is the first offence, Mr Pandey informed.

He said there are 36 flying squads in operation at present.

Besides, there are another 110 squads which are working overtime to curb power thefts.

From April to November this year, there have been 14,000 cases, and 55,00 FIRs have been lodged. A total amount of Rs 10 crore has been recovered in terms of assessment during this period, Mr Pandey said.

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