JBVNL Announces Strict Action Against High-Value Electricity Bill Defaulters in Jamshedpur
Consumers of the Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (JBVNL) in Jamshedpur and its surrounding regions, who have outstanding electricity bills amounting to Rs 10,000 or more, are now facing the immediate threat of power supply disconnection. This decisive move comes as the utility company grapples with severe revenue losses due to widespread non-payment of bills.
Revenue Crunch Forces Stringent Measures
Ajit Kumar, the General Manager of JBVNL for the Jamshedpur circle, has confirmed that the department has identified a persistent pattern of consumers failing to clear their electricity dues on a regular basis. This delinquency has resulted in significant financial strain for the nigam, hindering its smooth operational functionality.
"The nigam is unable to function smoothly due to revenue crunch," Kumar stated. "Teams will be formed to visit areas with a list of defaulters and disconnect their power supply." He emphasized that most of these defaulters have already been served multiple payment reminders, and the utility is now prepared to take stringent action, including disconnection, at any moment.
Mobile Towers Among Major Defaulters Owing Crores
A substantial portion of the outstanding dues is attributed to mobile tower operators. The defaulters' list prominently includes 81 mobile towers located in East Singhbhum and the adjoining Seraikela-Kharsawan district. Collectively, these towers owe an astonishing sum of approximately Rs 4.33 crore to JBVNL.
Kumar issued a clear ultimatum: "If the dues are not cleared within the next two to three days, JBVNL teams will disconnect power supply."
Division-Wise Breakdown of Defaulters
The Mango division has emerged as the area with the highest number of defaulters, encompassing both residential and commercial connections. Within this division, 36 mobile tower owners alone owe around Rs 2.22 crore.
- The Ghatshila division follows closely, with 27 mobile tower owners collectively responsible for about Rs 2 crore in unpaid bills.
- The remaining defaulters are distributed across the Adityapur and Jamshedpur divisions. Sources indicate that Adityapur accounts for 15 mobile tower owners with substantial outstanding dues.
- In addition to commercial defaulters, the Jamshedpur circle also has approximately two dozen residential consumers who have failed to pay their electricity bills.
Public Concern Over Potential Disconnections
The issuance of disconnection notices to households and mobile tower operators has sparked considerable anxiety among local residents. Many fear the broader implications of such actions, particularly on daily life and essential services.
Ondrilla Dutta, a teacher residing in the area, voiced her concerns: "The government must consider all aspects before taking such decisions. With board and final examinations currently underway, power cuts in residential areas could adversely affect students. Life becomes incredibly difficult without mobile and internet connectivity." Her statement highlights the critical dependency on uninterrupted power for education, communication, and overall quality of life, especially during crucial academic periods.
JBVNL's crackdown underscores the severe financial challenges faced by public utilities due to bill payment defaults. While aimed at recovering crucial revenue, the potential disconnections pose a significant dilemma, balancing fiscal responsibility against the essential needs of consumers in Jamshedpur and its environs.
