CM Sukhu Directs Power Sector Overhaul to Curb Electricity Losses and Theft.
Chairs High-Level Meeting; Reviews Key Projects Including 450 MW Shong-Tong Power Project.
Shimla:
In a significant move to tighten control over electricity distribution and curb power losses in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) to implement a comprehensive strategy including feeder metering and detailed consumer mapping. Chairing a high-level review meeting of officials from HPSEBL and the Energy Department, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for accurate assessment of electricity losses and stringent measures to check power theft across the state.
The CM instructed the department to conduct feeder-wise mapping of all commercial, industrial, and domestic consumers to consolidate electricity usage data, ensuring it is accessible at the click of a button. “Officers must take every possible measure to reduce power losses and ensure transparency in the power sector,” he stated.
In a move aimed at rationalizing staff deployment, CM Sukhu also directed that by April 30, all officers and officials of HPSEBL currently on deputation in the Directorate of Energy, Himachal Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation, and the Power Corporation be given an option to choose their preferred place of posting. He added that employees of the civil wing could also opt to join departments like the Public Works Department (PWD). Assuring the staff, the Chief Minister said that there would be no adverse impact on their promotions, pay, or other benefits, and the government would amend policies as required to safeguard their interests.
Further strengthening HPSEBL, the Chief Minister announced the recruitment of 2,000 T-mates and Linemen in the coming months. This decision is aimed at boosting the manpower and efficiency of the state’s power infrastructure.
During the meeting, progress on the 450 MW Shong-Tong Karcham Hydroelectric Project was also reviewed. CM Sukhu emphasized timely completion of the project, setting a deadline of November 2026. He also called for early planning for power evacuation to prevent revenue loss once the project becomes operational.
To enhance accountability and transparency, the Chief Minister ordered the transfer of officials serving in industrial areas for prolonged periods, indicating a stricter approach to governance in key sectors.
The meeting was attended by several senior officials including Chairman of HPSEBL Sanjay Gupta, Principal Advisor to CM Ram Subhag Singh, Secretary (Power) Rakesh Kanwar, MD HPSEBL Sandeep Kumar, Director of Energy Rakesh Prajapati, MD HP Power Transmission Corporation Ltd. Rajiv Sood, and Special Secretary (Power) Arindam Chaudhary, among others.
The government’s decisive push for reforms in the power sector is expected to enhance operational transparency, reduce losses, and strengthen energy infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh.
