KERC Directs Bescom: Supply Power Only to Buildings with Occupancy Certificates

Quick Summary

• The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has directed electricity supply companies, including Bescom, to provide services only to buildings with completion/occupancy certificates, following a Supreme Court judgment.
• The order applies to Mangalore, Hubli, Chamundeshwari and Gulbarga electricity supply companies and the Hukkeri rural cooperative.
• The Supreme Court ruling on Dec 17, 2024 mandates utility connections only after proper certification and rectification of any plan violations.
• BBMP chief commissioner issued a similar directive on Jan 9 for Bengaluru utilities concerning unauthorized building connections.
• Builders are required to obtain completion certificates before handing over properties and must display approved plans at construction sites.
• BWSSB has been penalizing unauthorized water connections since 2016 but hasn’t received an SC directive yet.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Karnataka regulatory body’s alignment with the Supreme Court decision marks a critical enforcement step towards addressing unauthorized constructions across the state. This regulatory push aims to uphold urban planning integrity by ensuring strict compliance with sanctioned building plans before granting essential utility services. Such measures could lead to more transparent construction practices and potentially deter illegal developments in cities like bengaluru. Though, effective implementation will require rigorous inspections and accountability mechanisms within both builders’ operations and municipal departments. Continued vigilance from authorities will be crucial to maintain adherence over time.

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