MARGAO: Citizens are enduring a challenging time as a scorching heatwave exacerbates the frustration caused by frequent power outages in Raia, Fatorda, and other parts of Salcete. The Electricity Department is under pressure to address the issue, as the outages not only damage household appliances but also make it unbearable to cope with the heat.
Startling revelations have emerged that areas supplied by the Ponda feeder suffer the most due to intentional power shutdowns aimed at preventing damage from the increased load of industrial estates.
Anthony Fernandes from Raia expressed anger over the persisting power outages, causing severe
hardships, particularly for senior citizens.
He criticized the department’s lack of understanding regarding the current heatwave conditions, emphasizing that such frequent disruptions are unacceptable, especially during the hot summer season.
“We have noticed that the power supply is being shut down at regular intervals on a daily basis and mostly during the night hours,” said Fernandes. Custodio Dias raised concerns about dangerous power surges that occur every time the power is restored, highlighting the daily occurrence of such outages.
Furthermore, citizens accused the department of making flimsy excuses about maintenance work while failing to address the ongoing issues. They say they feel deceived by the department’s actions.
When O Heraldo reached out to the power sub-station in Ponda, officials confirmed that residents in Raia and other areas supplied by the Ponda feeder will continue to suffer from sudden power failures until a new 60 MV transformer is installed.
The staff at the Ponda sub-station assured that a new 60 MV power transformer is scheduled for installation, offering hope for a resolution to the ongoing power issues.
