KPDCL implements ban on nichrome coil-based heating gadgets

SRINAGAR — In a significant move, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) issued an order on Wednesday prohibiting the procurement and sale of heating gadgets based on nichrome coils.

The KPDCL, through an official communication, urgently directed its subordinate offices to reconsider a previous order that had banned the production, import, transportation, sale, purchase, or use of crude heaters, boilers, and steamers relying on nichrome coil technology.

The ban comes into effect due to observed non-compliance with the required specifications outlined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or the International Electro-Technical Commission. The KPDCL stated, “In consonance with the above orders, all Electric Divisions have done a remarkable job in seizing these crude heating appliances from a vast majority of the consumers.”

The communication expressed concern over the post-seizure behaviour of consumers who reportedly purchase new nichrome coil-based crude gadgets from the market, undermining the efforts made in confiscating the non-compliant devices.

To permanently eradicate the availability of such heating gadgets, the directive instructs the implementation of the Government Order by circulating it among business outlets dealing in electrical equipment/items. These outlets are to be advised against procuring and selling any nichrome coil-based heating gadgets, with non-compliance leading to immediate seizure.

The KPDCL further advised the subordinate offices to collaborate with the District Administration to ensure the strict enforcement of the government orders. This initiative aims to curb the abuse of electricity associated with the use of non-compliant heating appliances. The corporation emphasized the importance of collective efforts to permanently remove nichrome coil-based heaters, boilers, and steamers from the market.