Nagpur: Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) launched one of its most aggressive drives in recent years and disconnected connection of more than 36,000 power bill defaulters in the district since March 1.The power utility, facing mounting arrears burden of around 43 crore, undertook enforcement measures including disconnections under police protection in several parts of the city and district. Officials said teams were directed to maximise recovery and act firmly against persistent defaulters.In sensitive areas such as Mankapur and Nai Basti under the Lashkaribagh subdivision, MSEDCL teams, accompanied by police personnel, carried out disconnection drives and cut electricity supply to hundreds of consumers who failed to clear dues despite repeated notices. The crackdown saw some resistance on the ground. In a locality in Katol town, an MSEDCL team was allegedly attacked while on recovery duty. Police have registered a case against those involved, with officials warning of strict action against anyone obstructing govt work. The recovery drive extended beyond individual consumers to govt bodies as well. Pending dues of nearly 10 crore from water supply schemes in the district prompted MSEDCL to issue an ultimatum to local self-govt institutions, including Nagar Panchayats, municipal councils and Block Development Officers. Officials cautioned that failure to clear dues could lead to disconnection of electricity supply to essential services such as water supply and street lighting.
