PROTEST OVER TRANSFORMER AND POWER CRISIS

PROTEST OVER TRANSFORMER AND POWER CRISIS

10-JUNE-ENG 3

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

SASARAM------------------------The anger of local residents erupted near the Nuranganj Durga Temple in the city due to ongoing electricity issues. Agitated consumers blocked the road and raised slogans against the Electricity Department. The protesters demanded the immediate installation of additional, high-capacity transformers in the neighborhood to provide a permanent solution to the long-standing power crisis.

Locals state that Nuranganj is a large, densely populated neighborhood, yet the entire area relies on a single transformer. Due to the excessive load, the transformer frequently breaks down; incidents of the transformer catching fire are also common occurrences. Consequently, the power supply is constantly disrupted, causing significant hardship for the residents.

Residents also mentioned that they had lodged complaints with Electricity Department officials multiple times, but the department merely performed superficial repairs on cables and transformers rather than addressing the root cause. Frustrated by the department's apathy, the people were compelled to take to the streets in protest. They demanded the installation of high-capacity transformers to reduce the load and ensure a regular power supply.

Consumers face numerous difficulties due to power issues, especially during the scorching summer heat. People rely on electricity for drinking water, as most households depend on electric motors for their water supply. Furthermore, power outages mean that household appliances—such as refrigerators, coolers, and fans—remain non-functional for long periods. Small children, the elderly, and students are also suffering as a result. Notably, the road blockade was cleared within minutes following prompt assurances from the officials.