Two transformers stolen from Chandni Chowk

NEW DELHI: A gang of thieves decamped with two electrical transformers that had been purchased for installation as part of the Shahjahanabad redevelopment project.

The transformers, each weighing around seven tonnes and estimated to be worth Rs 60 lakh, went missing from Katra Neel in Chandni Chowk area sometime between July 15 and July 29.

The theft was noticed on July 29 and an FIR was registered two days later at the Lahori Gate Police station, around 1.5km from the spot.

According to sources, the packed transformers had been procured by power distribution company BSES and left on a plinth outside Katra Neel.

One of the transformers was brought more than a year ago (in June last year) with the second being brought January this year. Since then, they had been lying idle as uncertainty surrounded the Shahjahanabad redevelopment project.

According to the FIR, an area manager of BSES visited the site on last Friday and found the two transformers missing. He reported the matter to his senior who then reported the theft to the police.

Deputy commissioner of police (north) Madhur Verma confirmed that the police had received a complaint and were investigating the matter.

“We suspect the involvement of the some discom staff in the incident. It is otherwise impossible to move such pieces of equipment without the help of a crane and a tempo. We have obtained footage from CCTVs in the area and are trying to figure out if any of the cameras caught the theft. We will rope in a team of experts to analyse the footage obtained,” Verma said.