Transformer theft in Moulvibazar rampant
Criminals stole 13 transformers of Moulvibazar Palli Bidyut Samity (PBS) in last two months, causing immense sufferings to the consumers of electricity in rural areas of the district.
In July, five transformers were stolen from Shaymerkuna, Ashia, Mukundapur and Kamalpur areas of Moulvibazar Sadar upazila and Baramchal of Kulaura upazila, said PBS officials and locals.
Besides, eight transformers from different areas of Moulvibazar district were stolen in June.
Motin Bokth, a consumer of PBS at Shaymerkuna village, said consumers have to bear the cost when a new transformer is to be installed and it creates burden on them.
PBS source, however, said according to the rules and regulations of the PBS, the transformer is provided free of cost at the time of opening electricity supply in any area. If transformer is stolen from an area for the first time, the authority is to pay 50 percent and the consumers concerned are to pay the rest for installing a new transformer. But in case of a stealing for the second time and afterwards, the consumers have to make full payment for a transformer to resume electricity supply.
"The criminals coming from outside the district usually steal transformers here with the help of their local accomplices. It is difficult for us to check such crimes. Police should take initiative to prevent transformer stealing,” said Razzakur Rahman, deputy general manager of the Moulvibazar office of PBS.
He also suggested the consumers to be aware and take measures to protect the transformers.
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