Illegal construction near power lines to invite penal action in Chandigarh

City residents may face penal action if constructed or extended buildings, balconies, boundary walls or other structures are close to overhead power lines or electricity poles and lines have been encroached upon.

“Unauthorised constructions that pose significant safety risks and violate electrical safety regulations may lead to penal action,” said an official of Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL).

Safety saves

Stay away from all electrical installations like electricity poles, transformers, streetlights, pillar box, etc, especially if they are waterlogged

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Regulations 60 and 61 of the Central Electricity Authority (Measures Relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2010, and Sections 53, 68(5) and 161 of the Electricity Act, 2003, mandated minimum clearances/distance that must be maintained between electricity lines/installations and nearby structures. These regulations aim to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

The official stated that any loss of life or property resulting from non-compliance with these regulations will hold the violator(s) accountable. “Penal action may be initiated against those who fail to adhere to the prescribed safety standards,” stated the official. The CPDL advised the building owners to remove any unauthorised structures that violate these clearance requirements. Failure to comply may result in the removal of such structures by the Municipal Corporation or the authority concerned in accordance with the provisions of the relevant rules and regulations, the official added.