Load reduction plan: UHBVN begins probe into graft charge

Mukesh Tandon

Tribune News Service

Panipat, November 14

The higher authorities of the Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN) have started an inquiry into the implementation of the load reduction plan (LRP) scheme in the city division.

The Chief Engineer (Operation), Panchkula, has also sought detailed information from the Superintending Engineer about the involvement of three officials in corruption while implementing the scheme.

The scheme was implemented in April to reduce the line loss by shifting of electricity meters outside the premises in the city and Samalkha divisions of the Panipat circle.

The matter came in light when an anonymous letter reached then Additional Chief Secretary (Power) Rajan Gupta in June. It was alleged that three officials of the UHBVN were involved in a scam worth crores of rupees in the name of implementation of the LRP scheme in connivance with a private firm owned by a retired official of the UHBVN.

Sources in the department said the Chief Engineer (Operation), Rohtak, wrote a letter to the Director, Operation, UHBVN, Panchkula, on December 2, 2015, for implementation of the scheme and shifting of around 60,000 meters on turnkey basis in the city and Samalkha divisions.

A proposal of Rs 7,05,21,650 in which Rs 4,85,66,000 was for the cost of materials, Rs 1,46,70,750 for labour charges and 15 per cent overhead charges which was Rs 72,84,900 was sent and the tender was allotted to M/s Sandha & Company of Gurgaon owned by a retired official of the UHBVN on April 4, said sources.

“Interestingly, the proposal was made to shift the electricity meters in the city without any survey or report from the local SDOs or JEs. However, all SDOs of the city division had already submitted a certificate about 100 per cent shifting of the electricity meters in April 2014,” the sources added.

“The complaint against three officials of the corporation for their alleged involved in corruption in implementing the LRP scheme in the city division was sent to the vigilance wing for investigation. The matter is under investigation and not possible to comment at this stage, but if anyone found guilty will not be spared,” said NK Sardana, Director, UHBVN, Panckhula.