Chandigarh, Nov 18 (NationPress) Punjab Power Minister Sanjeev Arora announced on Tuesday that the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) will now provide electricity connections without requiring a no-objection certificate (NOC) as long as applicants submit a necessary undertaking.

He emphasized that this initiative demonstrates the government's dedication to delivering essential services to residents promptly while still complying with legal protocols.

Previously, applicants had to present approvals such as NOC, regularization certificates, or sanctioned building plans issued by local authorities to secure a power connection.

“However, the unavailability or delays in receiving these approvals from different departments caused significant inconvenience to the public. Following directives from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, we sought a practical solution, which has now been implemented,” he stated in a press release.

According to the updated guidelines, electricity supply connections will now be granted to all applicants under the provisions of the Supply Code 2024, provided they furnish an undertaking. This undertaking states that their electricity connection can be disconnected if the premises are later deemed illegal or unauthorized by any relevant authority.

Moreover, the applicant must pay an amount equal to the service connection charges as a security deposit to cover dismantling costs, in addition to the regular charges as stipulated in the Supply Code 2024.

Arora reassured that this new approach balances public convenience while maintaining necessary safeguards.

“The Mann government is committed to ensuring that every household has access to essential services. This decision guarantees that citizens will not be deprived of electricity,” he added.

The Power Minister instructed officials to strictly adhere to the revised guidelines, stressing the importance of transparency and consistent application across the state.

He also mentioned that efforts are ongoing to simplify application forms for electricity connections and to prioritize the digitization of records.

Previously, PSPCL had established that applicants or consumers seeking new connections or modifications in load up to 50 kW within the low tension category would no longer need to submit test reports from licensed electrical contractors or self-certifications regarding the electrical installations of their premises.

Instead, there will be a declaration in the online application form where applicants will provide an e-declaration.