Female ‘Urja Mitras’ set up a new example against electricity theft in Rajasthan. The Centre instructs other states to implement this step.
An unexpected conversation between Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje and Chhoti Hudda, a 60-year old resident from Bithur, led to an epic change in the history of Rajasthan. The state was earlier struggling with power loss, theft and defects in power transmission but Raje’s innovative concept- ‘Urja Mitras’, backed by village women has lit up 597 households across Ajmer. A perfect example of vigilance, cooperation and unity, the ‘Bithur’ episode became a role model for other cities, as well. Seeing the success of the Bithur Model, Centre has now instructed 16 other states to follow into footsteps of Rajasthan.
Bithur Is a Place where Female Urja Mitras Actively Prevented Power Theft
How did it happen? When Raje visited the remote village of Bithur in May, she learnt that villagers were suffering from power crisis in state. Power theft and poor maintenance of electric poles, meters and wires was the leading cause behind electricity shortage in the aforementioned region. CM immediately prompted the villagers to take action against power theft,
“It’s in your hands — you bring down losses, we will give you better supply,” she said.
While the men were silent, women came forward and took this challenge. Within a few days, the entire village took an oath to control payment backlog, meter tempering and power theft. This is how the government was able to trim down T&D losses to more than 40%.
The women who bore this responsibility were designated as ‘Urja Mitras’, vigilant friends that keep a cautious eye on power transmission. Due to their rigorous efforts, the women-led vigilance teams registered 12 cases of power theft. The government quickly sprung to action and a penalty of Rs. 2.5 lakh was imposed on defaulters.
Soon the movement spread like a forest fire in neighbouring districts and huge number of people participated in this mission to prevent power loss. Thus, with powerful and careful approach, ‘Bithur’ model became an inspiring lesson for all. According to the experts, if it’s successfully implemented nationwide, it’ll help them cover outstanding DISCOM debts. Kudos to Raje Government and public for effectively resolving electricity crisis in state with mutual cooperation!
