In Ludhiana, Punjab, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) is grappling with a significant rise in transformer thefts, which have disrupted power supply across residential, rural, and industrial areas. Recent data indicates that 1,885 transformers have been rendered defunct due to thefts, a sharp increase from 1,176 during the same period last year. The financial impact has escalated to ₹814.72 lakh (approximately $980,000 USD). The highest number of thefts has been reported from suburban circles, with 1,033 cases, followed by 800 in the Khanna circle. Despite filing FIRs for every theft, police investigations have not led to any arrests, raising concerns among PSPCL officials. Chief Engineer Jagdev Singh Hans emphasized the need to target the scrap trade, which he believes is crucial to the operation of the theft network. The trend has intensified, with 609 theft cases reported this year compared to 358 last year, highlighting a more aggressive targeting of power infrastructure. The ongoing thefts have resulted in feeder disruptions and delays in restoring power, placing additional strain on PSPCL's field staff.