7.03cr power bill stuns Basti farmer

Lucknow: A farmer in Basti district was left shocked when he was served the electricity bill amounting to Rs 7.03 crore. His wife took ill on seeing the erroneously inflated bill.
Molahu had obtained a 1kW power connection in 2014. He last cleared his bill in 2019 and by Dec 2024, his power dues had accumulated to about Rs 74,230, according to information provided to him by SDO Hariya office.
"Until Dec last year, my power dues were Rs 1 lakh. But on Jan 1 this year, I was notified that the bill due was exceeding Rs 7.03 crore. My wife fell ill on hearing the due amount. My entire property valuation does not even reach Rs 7 crore, how could I possibly settle the power dues? Furthermore, it appeared incorrect at first glance as I neither possess a commercial connection nor operate any industry," said Molahu.
Basti comes under Purvanchal Vidyut Vitaran Nigam Limited (PuVVNL). Molahu approached the power officials and
A UPPCL spokesperson said, "It was an error which reflected power dues of Rs 7.03 crore. After reassessment on Feb 3, Molahu's power bill stands at Rs 27,274 only."
Power minister AK Sharma has directed PuVVNL to suspend the officer/staff involved in the gross negligence.