The Times of India
Elections 2026Lucknow / The Times of India
Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd (UPPCL) has justified revising electricity loads for over 46 lakh consumers, citing adherence to the Electricity Supply Code. This move, affecting some smart meter users, aims to align sanctioned loads with actual usage. However, consumer groups allege violations of central policies and potential financial burdens, particularly for BPL households whose subsidies may be impacted by increased load limits.
A notorious fugitive, convicted for a 2008 dacoity-cum-murder in Gujarat and on the run for over 15 years after escaping police custody, has been apprehended in Ayodhya. Ghanshyam Verma, who had been living under an assumed identity as a mechanic, was arrested in a joint operation by UP STF and Gujarat Police. His capture concludes a lengthy manhunt across multiple states.
A woman caused a stir at Gonda railway station by climbing a 150-foot tower with her three young children, demanding to live with her alleged lover. After a tense nine-hour standoff, a specialized SDRF team successfully brought the family down safely. The woman's desperate plea to unite with her partner led to the dramatic rescue operation, drawing a large crowd.
Uttar Pradesh ATS apprehended a man with a 25,000 bounty, allegedly a key player in a cross-border fake currency network. Operating from Bangladesh via West Bengal, the syndicate supplied counterfeit notes to various Indian states. This arrest follows the earlier capture of two associates in Varanasi, who revealed the supply chain. Investigators are now working to dismantle the entire operation and identify more syndicate members.
Ayodhya police are intensifying their probe into alleged Ram Temple donation embezzlement, tracing an SUV linked to accused Avinash Shukla used for transporting misappropriated cash. Investigators are examining the vehicle's records and questioning Shukla, a former donation counting employee. Authorities believe more cash and valuables may be hidden, with the SUV's digital evidence crucial for tracing the stolen funds and identifying other accomplices.
In a surprising move, Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited has agreed to refund excess smart meter charges to around 93,000 consumers, diverging from their own findings that indicate nearly six lakh customers were overcharged. This decision follows an instruction from the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission. To date, Rs 33.
Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd. has automatically increased the electricity load for nearly 47 lakh consumers without prior notice, raising concerns about regulatory compliance. This move, coinciding with a new tariff order, aims to align sanctioned loads with actual usage and is projected to significantly boost UPPCL's fixed charge revenue. Consumer groups question the infrastructure's readiness to handle the increased demand.
A significant fire engulfed Vijay Paradise restaurant in Lucknow's Khurram Nagar on Friday afternoon, sparking a massive rescue operation. Concerns are high for employees believed to be trapped inside. This incident follows a string of recent fires in the city, including a tragic blaze last week that claimed multiple lives and injured others. Emergency services are working diligently to manage the current situation.
Uttar Pradesh is establishing five specialized manufacturing hubs across the state to bolster its defence industrial corridor. Each city, including Kanpur for small arms and Lucknow for missiles, will focus on distinct defence segments. This strategic development aims to create a comprehensive manufacturing network, fostering component production, testing, and final integration. The corridor's success hinges on timely operationalization of investments and robust private sector involvement.

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