Follow Karnataka’s footsteps: Centre to states

BANGALORE: Encouraged by Karnataka’s success in checking power theft over the last three years, the Centre  has now exhorted other states to emulate the methodologies adopted by power-starved Karnataka.

The four-level strategies adopted by Karnataka to check power theft and pilferage have resulted in record reduction of transmission and distribution losses. Other states should take a leaf out of Karnataka’s enforcement measures, stated a recent circular from the Union power ministry which was circulated to all states.

In its successful fight against power pilferage, Karnataka has earned the number 1 spot for the first time in the country. From a distant number eight, the state managed to secure the top slot in 2009-10, pushing the country’s leader in power reforms, Gujarat, to second place.

“We have set a record by collecting nearly Rs 140 crore through power theft penalties. This is the highest revenue generated by any state in a single financial year. From April to July 2010, we have already collected Rs 50 crore,” said IGP Alok Mohan, who till recently headed the vigilance and enforcement wing of KPTC and Escoms.

A few years ago, the state’s transmission and distribution (T&D) losses of accounted for one-fourth of electricity consumed daily in Bangalore. Power theft was one of the major causes for T&D losses. At over 24%, it was the highest among states in South.

Read more: Follow Karnataka’s footsteps: Centre to states – The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Follow-Karnatakas-footsteps-Centre-to-states/articleshow/6515610.cms#ixzz0yujHaKee

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