MSEDCL Pune Intensifies Dues Recovery Drive, Disconnects Over 7,000 Consumers
The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has issued a stern warning to consumers in the Pune circle, urging them to clear pending electricity dues ahead of the festive season. The power utility has launched an aggressive recovery campaign targeting outstanding arrears amounting to a staggering Rs 319.5 crore.
Massive Disconnections and Zero-Arrears Target
In a decisive move over the last fortnight, MSEDCL has disconnected electricity supply to 7,122 consumers who failed to settle their dues. The company has set an ambitious zero-arrears target by the end of March, emphasizing that it will not hesitate to disconnect defaulters. To accelerate action, division-wise teams have been formed across the Pune circle.
Chief Engineer Sunil Kakade of the Pune circle stated, "Customers are requested to cooperate with MSEDCL by promptly clearing their current electricity bills and any outstanding arrears. They should take proactive steps to avoid situations that may lead to the disconnection of their electricity supply."
Breakdown of Defaulters by Consumer Category
The recovery drive has revealed significant defaults across various consumer segments. Here is a detailed breakdown of the outstanding amounts:
- Domestic Consumers: 4 lakh defaulters owe Rs 75 crore collectively, making this the highest defaulting category.
- Commercial Consumers: Approximately 65,408 consumers have pending dues of Rs 31.5 crore.
- Industrial Consumers: 10,099 consumers owe Rs 18.4 crore.
- Street-Light Consumers: 4,610 consumers have outstanding arrears of Rs 96.1 crore.
- Public Water Supply Consumers: 1,858 consumers owe Rs 87.5 crore.
- Public Services Category: 5,321 consumers have dues totaling Rs 11.1 crore.
Incidents of Resistance and Police Complaints
The recovery drive has not been without challenges. MSEDCL officials reported incidents where defaulting consumers created disturbances. In one case, a branch engineer conducting a meter inspection during the recovery campaign was verbally abused and threatened by a customer. In a separate incident in Kondhwa, a senior technician engaged in bill recovery faced similar verbal abuse and threats from an individual at the location.
Police complaints have been filed in both instances, highlighting the tensions surrounding the dues recovery efforts. MSEDCL has reiterated its commitment to taking strict action against defaulters while ensuring the safety of its personnel.
The utility's message is clear: consumers must settle their dues promptly to avoid disconnection, especially with the festive season approaching. The drive underscores MSEDCL's focus on financial discipline and reliable service delivery in the Pune region.
