Copper Wires valuing Rs 1 Lakh Looted from Pump House of Jal Shakti Department in Shimla

Shimla, March 16: Copper wires worth about Rs 1.10 lakh have been stolen from the pump house of the Jal Shakti Department at Jubbal, Shimla. The theft took place on the night of March 14 when unidentified thieves broke into the Para Pump Bishkalti Khad (Dochi) of Tehsil Jubbal and made away with copper wires. The case was registered by Narendra Bhagat, Assistant Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, at Police Station Jubbal.

The copper wires, which have been stolen, are essential for the operation of the pump house that supplies water to localities. Bhagat said the theft could impact the water supply as the removal of the copper wires could stop the pump from working. Department plans to get started repairing the damaged pipelines as soon as possible to ensure the water supply will not be delayed too much.

The theft is part of a pattern. The Jal Shakti Department said similar thefts had taken place in pump houses before, and employees were worried about the safety of infrastructure which is critical to supporting the needs of people. If such incidents are repeated, it raises fears of repeated interruptions to the water supply system ultimately affecting local residents.

Local police at the scene initiated a probe after the incident. The police believe the robbery was conducted by a well-organized gang engaged in the theft of precious metals. Officials are examining CCTV footage from surrounding areas in a bid to track down the perpetrators.

The incident underscores ongoing security concerns surrounding essential public infrastructure in Shimla as authorities work to resolve the situation.