Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
In recent days, power outages in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar zone have increased significantly. Calling it a serious issue, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) Executive Director (Projects) Prasad Reshme on Thursday instructed that immediate steps be taken to ensure a reliable power supply.
Reshme directed that areas facing frequent power cuts be identified, and maintenance and repairs in those areas be done on a priority basis. To strengthen the basic infrastructure, local-level plans should be prepared and implementation should be accelerated, he added.
Reshme was speaking during a review meeting of various projects and schemes under the MSEDCL’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar division. Present at the meeting were Chief Engineer Pawan Kumar Kachhot, Superintending Engineer Beena Sawant (Infrastructure Planning), Manish Thakare (Urban Circle), and Sandeep Darwade (Rural Circle).
Key points highlighted by ED (P)
Outstanding electricity bill amounts have been consistently increasing in the past few months. Emphasized that recovering unpaid bills is the only way to maintain MSEDCL’s financial stability. Staff have been instructed to make full efforts to recover dues without giving excuses. Strict action will be taken against those who neglect recovery responsibilities.
On electricity theft and losses
Reshme also pointed out that many consumers whose electricity connections have been permanently disconnected due to non-payment still account for a large part of energy loss. In some subdivisions, the number of permanently disconnected consumers is higher than active ones, leading to rising losses. He ordered a special drive to identify and take immediate action against electricity theft.