A power outage due to non-payment of dues by the HCA threatened the upcoming IPL match between CSK and SRH.
The upcoming IPL clash between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on April 5th faced the major hurdle of a power outage. According to reports, the electricity supply to the stadium was cut due to non-payment of dues by the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA).
The issue arose from the HCA’s outstanding electricity bill of Rs 1.6 crore owed to the power distribution company (DISCOM). Apparently, the HCA has failed to clear this payment for the past seven years.
Reports indicate that DISCOM first issued a notice to the HCA in February 2024 regarding the unpaid dues. However, the HCA did not respond to the notice or make any attempts to settle the bill. Consequently, DISCOM has proceeded to disconnect the power supply to the stadium in a bid to pressure payment.
“Electricity has been cut off at the Hyderabad Cricket Stadium ahead of the IPL match. The HCA hasn’t paid a bill of Rs. 1.6 crore to DISCOM for 7 years. Earlier, they approached the court, asking them to consider their plea. The first notice was served in February 2024. There wasn’t any response from HCA, despite continuous follow-ups. The department has already disconnected the power supply,” the report stated, as quoted by the Newsmeter.
This unexpected development threw the upcoming IPL match into jeopardy. The organisers were scrambling to find a solution and restore power to the stadium before the scheduled start time. However, electricity was temporarily restored to the stadium, granting the HCA one more day to settle the dues.
Regarding the surcharge of Rs. 1.6 crore, the court has instructed the petitioner association to formally present their case to the concerned authorities.
Last Updated on April 5, 2024
