Bescom set to cut power to buildings with illegal construction

The Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Ltd (Bescom) is preparing to take action against buildings constructed in violation of regulations, potentially cutting power supplies to those structures. This move is part of a broader effort to curb illegal construction across the city.

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The initiative, welcomed by some residents as a "significant step," will be activated when Bescom discovers violations in construction. However, the power cut will only occur following requests from civic bodies, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), or other statutory authorities. Bescom has issued a circular from its Chief General Manager, Operations, instructing field officers to issue seven-day notices to consumers when prompted by these agencies. The circular emphasizes that any failure to comply will be taken seriously.

Bescom's actions are governed by provisions in the Indian Electricity Act, the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Corporation (KERC) Code 2004, and specific clauses in power supply agreements. These laws empower officials to disconnect power when directed by government agencies due to non-compliance with building laws.

The circular also referenced a case involving a building collapse in which nine workers lost their lives, underscoring the serious consequences of illegal construction. This crackdown follows recent pan-India guidelines aimed at combating illegal construction.