MSEDCL files cheating case against agency over unrepaired transformers

MUMBAI: The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has lodged a criminal complaint against a transformer repair agency, Expert Transformer, over an alleged scam involving unreturned and stripped transformers worth over Rs 58 lakh.
Manisha Bhoi, Additional Executive Engineer at MSEDCL’s Mulund Division, lodged the complaint at Mulund Police Station against Akash Milind More, the proprietor of Expert Transformer, based in Vapi, Gujarat.

According to the complaint, Expert Transformer was empanelled by MSEDCL’s Thane Urban Circle to repair seven transformers—four of 995 KVA and three of 630 KVA capacity—between 1 and 5 July 2024. The Letter of Intent (LOI), issued on 25 June 2024, authorised the work, with the total contract value amounting to Rs 58,63,334.
Despite repeated follow-ups via phone, email, and written communication, the agency allegedly failed to repair or return four of the transformers.
On 19 November 2024, MSEDCL officials visited the listed repair site at Dahisar Gaon, near Mumbra-Shil Road in Thane. The premises were found non-operational, with locals stating the workshop had been closed for two months. At the site, officers discovered empty transformer shells discarded by the roadside. The internal components were missing, suggesting possible stripping of parts.
In response, MSEDCL issued a termination notice to Expert Transformer on 4 December 2024, asking for a written explanation within seven days. No reply was received from the agency.
On 9 April 2025, MSEDCL formally requested legal action at Mulund Police Station against Akash More, citing alleged fraud, breach of trust, and financial loss to the public utility.
The case has been registered under applicable sections of the Indian Penal Code.