805 notices issued for illegal constructions near power lines in Chandigarh

Chandigarh : Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) has issued 805 disconnection notices to household owners for carrying out unauthorised constructions dangerously close to electric poles and overhead lines. These violations include extended buildings, balconies, boundary walls, and encroachments on poles and lines.

Following CPDL’s takeover of the city’s power distribution system in February 2025, a detailed survey was conducted across villages and colonies to identify such violations.

Violations were found in areas including Sector 25, Bapu Dham Colony, Sector 26; Daria, Khuda Jassu, Khuda Lahora, Dhanas, Hallomajra, Faidan, Manimajra, Mauli Jagran, Mauli village, Vikas Nagar, Charan Singh Colony, Palsora, Burail, Dadumajra, Dadumajra Colony, and Maloya.

These constructions breach the Central Electricity Authority (Measures Relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2010, and the Electricity Act, 2003, which mandate minimum clearances between electrical infrastructure and nearby structures to ensure public safety. CPDL officials stressed that maintaining the prescribed distance is crucial to prevent electrical hazards and protect lives and property.

Residents have been instructed to remove the encroachments. Failure to comply will result in disconnection of electricity supply without further notice, with legal action initiated as per the law. CPDL has also shared details of the notices with the Chandigarh Housing Board, Municipal Corporation, and Police Department for necessary action.

Officials noted that more notices are being served to owners of houses with unauthorised constructions near power lines.

UT invokes ESMA to prevent CPDL staff strike:
The Chandigarh Administration has invoked the Haryana Essential Services (Maintenance) Act (ESMA), 1974, prohibiting any strike by CPDL employees until January 26, 2026. The notification cited that strikes could disrupt the generation and maintenance of electricity supply, an essential service critical to the city.