KPDCL cracks down on power theft, adds 13,179 new connections

Srinagar, July 08: In a bid to curb power theft and reduce losses, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has launched a massive crackdown on illegal connections, conducting 55,321 inspection drives in the past three months. The drive has resulted in the disconnection of 11,450 consumers for non-payment of dues, with outstanding arrears of Rs 43.26 crore recovered.
Despite rumours, the KPDCL has not hiked electricity tariffs in metered and non-metered areas. However, a calibrated rationalization of load is being carried out in unmetered areas, based on actual consumption.
The corporation has also added 13,719 new connections to its domestic consumer base, increasing the load by 7.5 MW. The new connections include 1,949 in Kulgam, 1,630 in Budgam, and 1,269 in Sopore, among other areas.
KPDCL has intensified action against smart meter tampering, with nearly 600 applications filed for registration of FIRs. The corporation has advised consumers to avoid using crude heating gadgets like heaters and boilers, which have been banned by the government.
The crackdown on power theft is part of KPDCL’s efforts to reduce losses and improve the overall efficiency of the power distribution system in the Kashmir region.