Bescom to cut power to illegal constructions in Bengaluru

Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) has announced stringent measures to support Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) in its crackdown on unauthorised constructions across the city.

Acting on directives from the civic body, Bescom issued a circular on April 5 instructing its chief and superintendent engineers to disconnect electricity supply to illegal properties.

Also read: Bescom set to cut power to buildings with illegal construction

The move follows a letter from the BBMP managing director dated January 1, 2025, referencing a Supreme Court order issued on December 17, 2024. The apex court had mandated strict action against unlawful constructions, prompting BBMP to engage utility agencies for enforcement.

According to the new guidelines, Bescom must verify essential documents—such as "A Khata" certificates and sanctioned building plans—before issuing temporary electricity connections to new or ongoing constructions. In cases where properties have been served notices under Section 248(3) of the BBMP Act, 2020, electricity supply will be disconnected.

Permanent power connections will now require verification of occupancy or completion certificates. To streamline the process, BBMP will provide Bescom with a dedicated console on its online building plan approval system, allowing real-time verification of certificates.

Additionally, the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission has directed all electricity supply companies (ESCOMs) in the state to comply with the Supreme Court’s order, reinforcing legal accountability.

This joint enforcement effort aims to deter illegal developments and promote adherence to Bengaluru’s urban planning norms.