By Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Chandigarh, April 11, 2026: Power Minister Anil Vij on Saturday issued a series of key directives to officials of the Energy Department, aiming to position Haryana as a leading state in the power sector while ensuring quality and uninterrupted electricity supply to consumers.
The minister was chairing a high-level review meeting in Chandigarh, attended by senior officials, including Ashima Barar and Vikram Singh.
At the outset, Vij appreciated the department’s performance, noting that operations remained smooth despite the prolonged vacancy in the Additional Chief Secretary’s post.
Anil Vij reviewed the strict limits on power cuts in Haryana:
Reviewing power outages over the past six months, the minister directed that power cuts must not exceed 2 hours in urban areas and 4 hours in rural areas.
He warned that strict action—including suspension—would be taken against officials, particularly Superintending Engineers, if these limits are violated.
Infrastructure & maintenance directives:
Emphasizing system reliability, Anil Vij ordered the quick replacement of faulty transformers with fully equipped maintenance teams and the provision of safety gear and tools within two days.
He also pointed out avoidance of substation construction in waterlogged areas; if unavoidable, they must be elevated at least two feet above water level with mandatory NOC and completion of tree pruning near power lines before the monsoon season.
Transparency & procurement reforms:
To improve efficiency, Anil Vij directed the creation of a dedicated online procurement portal, which will track equipment across the state, prevent duplication, include an admin dashboard for demand monitoring and purchase planning.
Taking a tough stance, Vij directed that all pending electricity-related cases be represented in court within three months.
He also warned of action under Rulw-8 against officials responsible for issuing connections to defaulters.
So far, 3,224 such cases have been identified, and three-member teams will address them within three months.
Recovery of outstanding dues:
The department has been tasked with recovering approximately Rs 8,274 crore from defaulting consumers, including Rs 585 crore from government departments.
Officials have been instructed to expedite recovery efforts across all regions.
Solar push & PM Surya Ghar scheme:
Highlighting renewable energy, Anil Vij directed that all government buildings must install solar systems within one year, and maximum coverage be ensured under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, especially for economically weaker households.
A Rs 200 crore revolving fund has been established to support this initiative. Additionally, awards will be given to circles achieving top performance in solar implementation.
Show-cause notices will be issued to officials in Kaithal, Kurukshetra, Panchkula, and Yamunanagar for poor recovery under the Land Recovery Act.
The meeting also reviewed power distribution strengthening, staffing, grievance redressal, and operational efficiency. Senior officers, including Chief Engineers and Superintending Engineers from across the state, were present during the meeting.
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EOM.
