Delhi discoms losing Rs 150 crore annually to power theft for charging e-rickshaws

Organised theft of power in Delhi for charging of e-rickshaws has assumed serious proportions with discom sources putting the annual losses due to it at nearly Rs 150 crore.

There are three power distribution companies -- BYPL and BRPL of BSES and Tata Power Delhi Dsitribution (TPDDL) -- that supply electricity to the national capital.

As per estimates there are over one lakh e-rickshaws plying on the city roads and only one-fourth of them are registered, despite a subsidy scheme of the government.

Power experts and discom sources claim lack of proper charging facilities has led to organised rackets of power theft in prominent parts of the city, especially in areas close to metro stations.

"Considering that most of the e-rickshaws are not registered, the collective loss of all three discoms due to charging through illegal connections is around Rs 150 crore," they said.

TPDDL CEO Sanjay Banga said, "We are committed to eradicate the menace of power theft and keeping a close watch on the illegal e-charging setups in the area of distribution. I appeal to all e-rickshaws owners to take legitimate connections and charge their vehicles in a legitimate and safe manner."