Lucknow, Oct. 14 -- As the state power corporation steps up efforts to recover outstanding dues, power distribution companies have been directed to write to gram pradhans and inform them about rural electricity consumers who have defaulted on bill payments.

The directive was issued by Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) chairman and principal secretary, energy, Ranveer Prasad, during a weekly review meeting at Shakti Bhawan on Tuesday. The move, according to officials, aims to facilitate coordinated efforts at the village level to improve recovery from defaulters.

Prasad also directed officials to identify the 10 biggest defaulters, verify their electricity bills, issue notices and initiate disconnection proceedings in accor...