An induction motor draws heavy current at starting due to the initial conditions during startup. When the motor is stationary, there is no back electromotive force (EMF) to counteract the incoming voltage. As a result, the current is higher, creating a larger starting torque to overcome inertia and set the motor in motion. This initial high current is known as the “starting current” or “locked rotor current.” Once the motor starts rotating, the back EMF increases, reducing the current to a more stable operating level.