Sub:- Procedure to be followed for assessment and filing of theft case where Consumer’s meter is found abnormally slow.
During routine inspection of meters some incidences of abnormal slowness of the meters was observed. However, no further investigation was carried out by the field staff. It is however, desired that in all such cases wherever the meter is found abnormally slow, further investigation should be carried out to find out whether the consumer was indulging in theft of energy by tampering the meter. In this regard, the following procedure should be followed:-
The meter under reference should be immediately replaced in presence of consumer / consumer’s representative, after making proper Panchanama and the meter under reference should be sealed in a box in presence of consumer.
Such energy meters should be tested in presence of consumer and also in presence of meter manufacturer’s representative, if possible, in our laboratory or any other recognized testing laboratories as may be desired by the consumer.
If necessary, the meter should be opened in the presence of consumer to find out whether any aritificial means / tampering, were used to make the meter slow and if any such artificial means are found, Panchanama and photograph should be taken.
If meter is found tampered by any artificial means, necessary action as prescribed under Section 135 of the Electricity Act, 2003 should be initiated.
In case no artificial means / tampering of meter is observed, the consumer should be billed as per regulation No.15.4.1 of MERC Electricity Supply Code Regulations, 2005.
Above instructions should be followed strictly with immediate effect.
Chief Engineer (Commercial)
Copy to:
All Chief Engineer, O & M Zone, MSEDCL.
All Superintending Engineer, O & M Circle, MSEDCL.
All Executive Engineer, O & M Division, MSEDCL.
All Dy. Executive Engineer, O & M Sub Division/Flying Squads, MSEDCL.
5. All Assistant Engineer, O & M Sub Division, MSEDCL.
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