Mandatory online-only power connections in Mohali flout PSERC norms, harass applicants

Time of India

a day ago

1
2
Mohali: The Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), Mohali circle, has come under fire for enforcing an online-only application process for new electricity connections.
This move violates the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) Supply Code 2024 and has triggered widespread public harassment and exploitation.
As per clause 3.3 of the supply code, power connection applications can be submitted either online or offline. However, PSPCL's Mohali circle — which includes Mohali, Zirakpur, Mullanpur, Banur, Dera Bassi, and Lalru — has implemented an online-only policy, forcing thousands of applicants to rely on digital means in an area where digital literacy and access remain varied.
With around 400 new connection applications received daily, the lack of adequate staff or functional help desks at PSPCL offices has left applicants struggling. Many reportedly wait for four to six hours, only to return empty-handed due to the absence of a proper token system or on-site assistance. This vacuum has been exploited by private touts operating openly outside PSPCL offices, charging Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 to fill and submit online forms — a process that is otherwise free.
Citizens like Kulwant Singh, Rajan Kumar, Satinder Singh, and Jagdeep expressed frustration, saying, "We were directed to get help from a private contractor with an office near the PSPCL application office. He asks for Rs 3,000 for filling online."
While deputy chief engineer, PSPCL Mohali circle, Harpreet Singh Oberoi, claimed, "The question is not that it is made mandatory. We have already set up help desks to facilitate offline applications," multiple applicants contest this statement, citing negligible assistance at ground level.
A senior PSPCL official, requesting anonymity, confirmed that no other district in Punjab has imposed a mandatory online-only process and acknowledged that doing so contradicts PSERC directives.
Adding to the consumers' woes, PSPCL has also reintroduced the requirement of a connected load test report for domestic consumers — a condition waived by Chandigarh's power department for connections up to 10 kW, in line with Central Electricity Authority (CEA) guidelines.
Critics argue this move further empowers private contractors at the expense of consumers and adds to bureaucratic red tape.
The developments have raised concerns over transparency, accessibility, and regulatory compliance. Consumers and activists are now urging the PSERC to intervene and direct PSPCL to reinstate the offline application process, as mandated by the Supply Code, to ensure equitable access to essential public services.