A businessman based out of Nerul recently paid a fine of ₹7.22 lakhs for stealing 3.5 lakh units of electricity for more than two years. Officials at the Nerul division of the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) recently raised the issue against the man who did this act for his three dogs, in order to provide them with a 24-hour air-conditioned room.
The man lives in Nerul's sector 1, in a 2BHK with his family and dogs (Golden Retriever, Labrador and Beagle). The information regarding this issue was received by MSEDCL on Wednesday when a team of officials from the department's palm beach office reached the society to investigate the matter. The team was led by Vashi board superintendent engineer Rajaram Mane and executive engineer Shinhajirao Gaikwad.
Upon reaching the apartment, the team for a concealed wire up until the fifth floor where the connection was used for the room. The man, upon questioning, admitted that he stole the electricity for his dogs who were foreign breeds and it was necessary for him to keep them in a certain temperature, as Mumbai's climate was unsuitable. After thorough investigation, the wire was seized and a fine was imposed under Section 135 of the Electricity Act, 2003 for total units of electricity used. He agreed to pay the fine and requested to bring the matter to an end.
Officials agreed to the same since this was his first offence, however, warned him that, if repeated, he would be taken to the police. Further, they also appealed to the public to not involve in similar activities.