Transformer thefts on the rise in Karnal

Karnal, July 18

The Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN) is facing huge losses as the cases of transformer thefts are on the rise across the district.

Small capacity ones targeted

Thieves target small transformers having the capacity of 10,16, 25 KVA in comparison to higher capacity transformers. Most of the thefts had been reported in the subdivisions situated along the Yamuna belt, including Gharaunda, Indri and Newal, in comparison to other subdivisions of the district. — Dharam Suhag, Executive Engineer, UHBVN, Karnal

Not easy to get new ones installed

I had to make several rounds of the UHBVN office after my transformer was stolen last year. Farmer, Nilokheri Block

Solved 293 cases in Karnal district: SP

In 2022, we have solved 293 theft cases and arrested 31 persons involved in these cases. Last year, we had solved 222 transformer theft cases and arrested 23 persons of different gangs in this regard. — Ganga Ram Punia, Superintendent of police

The data said, on an average, nine transformers were stolen every four days in the current year. The cost of one transformer ranges between Rs 50,000 and Rs 60,000, while the thieves, sell copper wires to scrap dealers at a lesser price as it is easy to sell, said police sources.

The data collected from the Karnal police says that 441 cases of transformer thefts had been registered in 192 days since January 1, 2022 to July 11, 2022 across the district, while 595 transformer thefts were reported in 2021.

As per officials of the UHBVN, thieves target small capacity transformers.

“Thieves target small transformers having the capacity of 10,16, 25 KVA in comparison to higher capacity transformers. Most of the thefts had been reported in the subdivisions situated along the Yamuna belt, including Gharaunda, Indri and Newal, in comparison to other subdivisions of the district,” said Dharam Suhag, XEN, UHBVN, Karnal.

Farmers have to face a lot to get a new transformer installed in their fields. “I had to make several rounds of the UHBVN office after my transformer was stolen last year,” said a farmer of the Nilokheri block.

The authorities claimed to have taken several steps to stop the transformer thefts. “We get all transformers wielded with poles, but thieves take out copper wires and oil from the transformers, causing the UHBVN huge losses,” said JS Nara, Superintending Engineer (SE), UHBVN, Karnal Circle. He said the department took 20 per cent cost of the transformer from the farmers so that they should also take care of their transformers. “We have a smooth system in releasing the transformers against the stolen ones,” said the SE. The police also claimed to have solved several cases by arresting people involved in this crime.