Power Department Registers FIR Against 272 Consumers Over Smart Meter Fraud
Government authorities in Srinagar are taking decisive action against smart meter tampering, with plans to file First Information Reports (FIRs) against 272 consumers. The move comes in response to the escalating issue of illegal hooking and tampering of smart meters across the region, as disclosed by officials on Saturday.
The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has intensified efforts to address this challenge, with numerous instances of tampering caught on camera and shared via various platforms. The corporation has submitted a list of consumers engaged in smart meter tampering to the administration for legal action, according to reports from WATTAN DAILY
Confirming the severity of the issue, a Technical Officer’s official communication to the Chief Engineer highlighted 70 confirmed cases of smart meter tampering by the Central Inspection Squad (CIS) during inspections. Subdivisional Officers (SDOs) of 11 Subdivisions have been directed to initiate FIRs against the offenders.
Consumers from various areas, including Zakura, Baghat, Chanapora, Watalkadal, Hawal, Khunmoh, Huzuribagh, Zainakote, Karan Nagar, Nawa Kadal, and Raj Bagh, are included in the list provided by KPDCL. Additionally, another list based on ‘meter cover-open’ tamper alerts from the Head End System (HES) includes 54 connections from Watalkadal and 148 from Chanapora.
Authorities have instructed officers to ensure prompt lodging of FIRs against offenders, signaling a firm stance against tampering with smart meters. Further lists are reportedly under preparation, with impending actions against additional violators on the horizon. This proactive approach underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electricity distribution system and ensuring fair practices among consumers.
