Power theft causes Punjab Rs 2,600 crore loss

Punjab is facing a significant financial blow, losing Rs 2,600 crores annually to power theft, according to recent data from the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL).

- TARUNI GANDHI

Despite the state government's efforts to provide free electricity to domestic consumers, power theft has surged, compounding the strain on Punjab's already burdened energy sector.

This alarming situation has come up, despite the Punjab government offering a subsidy of over Rs 6,000 crores, in lieu of the free 300 units of electricity provided to consumers. In addition, a further Rs 1,400 crores has been allocated as a rebate for domestic consumers with up to 7KW load under the Rs 2.50 per unit scheme during the 2023-24 fiscal year. These initiatives were meant to ease the financial burden on households, but rampant power theft continues to undermine the state's efforts to stabilise the electricity supply system.

MAJOR THEFTPRONE AREAS IDENTIFIED

Out of the Rs 2,600 crores lost to power theft annually, 20 PSPCL divisions across Punjab's border, west, and south zones account for half the amount-approximately Rs 1,300 crores. These divisions have been identified as notorious theftprone areas, where electricity theft is a rampant issue, contributing significantly to the state's financial woes.

The border zone leads as the most affected region, followed by the west zone and the south zone.

Specifically, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, Suburban Amritsar, and Sangrur circles have been flagged as major contributors to power theft, each housing several divisions, notorious for revenue losses.

Tarn Taran circle alone, with its four divisions, stands out as a critical hotspot for power theft.