DC seeks list of illegal power connections

In a bid to crackdown on unauthorised colonies and check the misuse of residential premises for commercial purposes, Gurgaon deputy commissioner PC Meena has asked the power distribution agency, Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitaran Nigam (DHBVN), to submit a list of residents who have taken electricity connections illegally. Dhananjay Jha reports.

In a bid to crackdown on unauthorised colonies and check the misuse of residential premises for commercial purposes, Gurgaon deputy commissioner PC Meena has asked the power distribution agency, Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitaran Nigam (DHBVN), to submit a list of residents who have taken electricity connections illegally.

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"I have asked DHBVN to submit a list by July end. We will then initiate action that may include filing of an FIR, disconnection and action against errant officials too," said Meena.

The action has come after Anil Dabas, district town planner (DTP), enforcement, raised the issue in a crucial meeting held recently.

"Residents of unauthorised colonies obtained a court stay against the demolition drive initiated by DTP Enforcement by claiming to have legal electricity connections. This has made us helpless and we can't take any action against them," said Dabas.

DTP Enforcement is responsible for removing unauthorised constructions and checking misuse of residential premises for commercial purposes in licenced colonies under provisions of the Punjab Scheduled Roads and Controlled Areas Act, 1963.

Guest houses, PGs, clinics, mobile towers and schools are illegally running from residential premises in licenced colonies. Meanwhile, Meena has also ordered DHBVN not to issue any fresh electricity connections in such cases.

"Without an approved building plan, the DHBVN is restricted from issuing any electricity connection. I have also directed the sub-divisional magistrates to submit a report in two weeks about unauthorised colonies in their areas," said Meena.

DHBVN superintending engineer Sanjeev Chopra was not available for comment despite repeated attempts.