The Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Ltd (Bescom) has announced stringent measures to curb illegal constructions in Bengaluru. Power supply to buildings violating regulations will be disconnected upon requests from civic bodies, including the BBMP, statutory authorities, and panchayat raj departments.
In a recent circular, Bescom’s chief general manager directed field officers to issue a seven-day notice to consumers after receiving such requests. Non-compliance will invite serious consequences, the circular warned. Bescom cited provisions from the Indian Electricity Act, the KERC Code 2004, and power supply agreements that empower the utility to act on non-compliance.
The move comes in the wake of a tragic building collapse in Babusapalya, which claimed nine lives. Authorities believe cutting off essential services like electricity and water is a practical way to halt unauthorized construction effectively. “Notices alone don’t deter violators. Disconnecting power and water is a stronger enforcement tool,” said R Rajgopalan, convener of the Bengaluru Coalition.
A Supreme Court ruling on December 17 further underscored this, mandating that banks verify occupancy certificates before approving loans and service providers demand them before granting connections.
Residents like C N Kumar of Jayanagar welcomed the move, calling it crucial in battling illegal construction. He urged other agencies, such as BWSSB, to adopt similar measures. Civic activists hope these steps will tighten oversight and deter violations across Bengaluru.
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