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Nagpur: Power thieves appear to have found a way to outsmart the smart meters, with the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd ( MSEDCL ) detecting 14 cases of electricity theft in a single day in Khapri branch under Butibori sub-division. In all 14 cases, consumers allegedly bypassed the smart meters by tapping the incoming power cable, allowing them to draw electricity without the consumption being recorded. Criminal and penal action is being initiated under Section 135 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
Four cases were also detected in Shanti Nagar, while one each was reported in Bhutia Darwaja, Gandhibagh, Gondkhair, Bhiwapur, Chapegaon, Salwa and Gowari.
MSEDCL said it has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards power theft, with flying squads and local officials tasked with detecting illegal connections. MSEDCL Nagpur Circle chief engineer Rajesh Naik said illegal power use could cause short circuits, transformer failures and fires, endangering consumers and the distribution network. MSEDCL officials detected the illegal connections during inspections and are assessing the quantum of power stolen and the penalties payable in each case. The cases have prompted MSEDCL to intensify inspections across industrial, commercial and residential areas in Nagpur circle. Two cases were detected in Khapa. Officials are also monitoring connections disconnected for non-payment of dues to prevent unauthorised reconnection. He urged citizens to use authorised connections and avoid inducements to obtain electricity through illegal means.
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