Industrialists blast PSEB for hiking theft penalty

The local industrialists of Ludhiana have condemned the Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) for its decision to increase penalty charges for theft tenfold.

Representatives of the industry said such a decision would only result in increased harassment to power consumers not only due to the increase in amount, but also due to the fact that disputes would be dealt with by the district administration and other authorities instead of the board.

Penalty has been increased for the small power and medium power supply categories from Rs 1,000 to Rs 10,000 per kw (kilowatt). In large category, it's up from Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000 per kw.

For non-residential power supply, the penalty has been upped from the earlier Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000.

For thefts detected on the domestic consumer lines, the penalty rise is from Rs 500 per kw to Rs 3,000 per kw.

Urging the chief minister to look into the matter, P D Sharma, president of Apex Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Punjab) said, "We have learnt that the board has resulted in an increase of almost 10 times in penalties for theft cases, which is highly unfair."

He further said the consumers could not bear such a hike. "Besides, miscreants may even misuse and levy allegations on the base of which such penalty can be levied," he added.

Ranjodh Singh, executive member of Auto Parts Manufacturers Association said the amount being heavy, small and medium units would be badly hit.

"Industry is not in a position to suffer another blow as it is already reeling under financial crunch. Industrial units are already performing badly and many are on the verge of closure. The decision will further aggravate the problem. The funny part of this decision is that though it has been taken by PSEB but the fine collected will be deposited with the Punjab Government."

"We urge the chief minister to look into the matter as the decision is neither in the interest of industry nor domestic consumers. Either the decision should be taken back or the old fine be restored," added Ranjodh.

Sources in the PSEB told in the last financial year, the board collected worth Rs 110 crore from power theft and unauthorized load.