Bangalore, Mar 26 (Indian Express): Energy Minister Shobha Karandlaje on Friday said an estimated 20 lakh illegal gas connections had been detected throughout the state.

“Most of these illegal connections are found to be rampant in urban centres. In about a week’s time, we will get city-wise details [of illegal connections], based on which an action-plan will be evolved to weed them out,” Shobha told presspersons.

She said the government’s decision to ask the people to submit their address proof and electricity RR number to detect the illegal gas connections had yielded the desired results. “This 20 lakh illegal connections is only a rough estimate based on a preliminary study. This could also go up,” she said and added, “We will have to chalk out a meticulous programme to get the illegal connections cancelled without getting into legal complications. I will have a detailed talk with the officials concerned.” Earlier, Shobha held video conference with the MDs and top officials of GESCOM and HESCOM. She directed the officials to be alert and vigilant about ensuring the power supply as the examinations have started.

“Never mind if you have to spend extra time and energy in this task but do not leave anything to chance and don’t be complacent. Do everything to ensure the supply of power to the maximum,” she told the officials.

Assuring the officials of providing necessary infrastructure, Shobha directed the officials to ensure that pro-people schemes do not suffer at any cost.