Online rental flats under scanner as KSEB imposes ₹10.71 lakh penalty

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has imposed penalties totalling more than ₹10.71 lakh after detecting the alleged misuse of domestic electricity connections in flats that were reportedly being rented out as lodges through online booking platforms.

The irregularities came to light during a surprise inspection carried out jointly by the Anti Power Theft Squad (APTS) units of Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam under the direction of the KSEB Chief Vigilance Officer.

The inspection covered flats under the Kazhakkoottam Electrical Section, where officials found that domestic electricity connections were allegedly being used for commercial lodging purposes in violation of applicable tariff regulations.

According to KSEB, penalties amounting to ₹10,71,416 have been imposed across three consumer numbers, and notices have been issued to the consumers concerned.

The power utility said it would continue similar inspections across Kerala to identify and prevent the misuse of domestic electricity connections for commercial activities.