Mohali, Aug. 1 -- In a move that has left residents fuming and raising concerns about regulatory compliance, the Mohali circle of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has enforced an online-only application process for new electricity connections, violating the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) Supply Code 2024.

The clause 3.3 of the PSERC Supply Code allows consumers to submit applications either online or offline. However, in Mohali, Zirakpur, and Mullanpur-as well as surrounding areas like Banur, Dera Bassi and Lalru-the PSPCL has shut the door on offline applications entirely, despite receiving nearly 400 new requests daily.

Applicants arriving at PSPCL offices are met with long queues, sparse staf...