Rs 1,200 cr power stolen every year in Punjab, villages account for 66% theft

Amid acute shortage of power, Punjab is spending Rs 12 crore daily to buy 1,140 MW to meet the rising demand. However, power thefts continue unabated in villages.

Despite getting free power for paddy fields, the villages account for the theft worth over Rs 800 crore per annum. Domestic and commercial urban consumers steal power worth Rs 300 crore, while the industry Rs 100 crore per annum.