The number of power theft cases have declined by around 18% in Punjab in 2023, with 7,167 cases reported till November 30, according to data of the Punjab State Power Corporation (PSPCL). In the corresponding period last year, 8,706 cases of power theft were reported.
Officials said that the decline was due to constant vigil by the corporation’s enforcement wing. They added that smart metres and free electricity scheme also motivated small consumers to not indulge in bypassing the norms.
According to documents accessed by HT, the highest number of power thefts cases were reported in November at 783. According to officials, PSPCL faces losses worth ₹2,000 crore due to power thefts every year.