Jamshedpur: In a major push to ensure an uninterrupted power supply for consumers, the Jharkhand power department has launched Mission ‘Zero Cut’, targeting a sharp reduction in electricity line losses across the Kolhan region by March 31, 2026. The goal is to limit total line loss to 15 percent, officials said.
At present, Kolhan’s transmission and distribution (T&D) losses stand at around 17–18 percent, while commercial losses remain high at 24–25 percent. To address this, Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (JBVNL) has begun strengthening its internal systems on multiple fronts simultaneously.
Smart meters, AB cables and new transformers
Under the initiative, old electricity meters are being replaced with smart prepaid meters, bare overhead lines are being converted to aerial bunched (AB) cables, and new transformers are being installed to reduce technical losses.
Officials said that legal electricity connections are now being provided on time upon application, while intensive drives against power theft are being carried out. At the same time, strict action is being taken against defaulters, including the filing of certificate cases to recover dues.
Chaibasa division records the lowest losses
Division-wise data shows significant variation in losses across Kolhan. The Chaibasa division currently has the lowest line loss at just 5–6 percent, setting a benchmark for other divisions. In contrast, losses in Adityapur under the Jamshedpur circle range between 12 and 15 percent.
Line loss status in Jamshedpur division
According to official figures, the situation in the Jamshedpur division is as follows:
- Karandih sub-division:
- T&D loss: 19%
- Commercial loss: 21%
- Jugsalai sub-division:
- T&D loss: 14%
- Commercial loss: 18%
- Chhota Govindpur sub-division:
- T&D loss: 19%
- Commercial loss: 20.5%
Target to cut losses further by March
Officials said efforts are underway to reduce line losses by at least 5 percent by March 31 this year, and to continue at the same pace to achieve the 15 percent target well before the 2026 deadline.
“So far, around 60,000 smart prepaid meters have been installed across Kolhan. Work is also progressing on AB cabling in low-tension lines and other infrastructure upgrades,” said Ajit Kumar, General Manager, Jamshedpur Area Board.
He added that multiple initiatives are being implemented simultaneously to ensure consumers receive a reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply under Mission ‘Zero Cut’.
The power department believes that sustained technical upgrades, strict enforcement against theft, and improved billing efficiency will help Kolhan significantly reduce power losses and improve overall service quality for consumers.
