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MERCES: Erratic power supply over the last many months has upset the locals of Kumbarvaddy in Merces, who have now demanded immediate solution to the problem.
Speaking to Herald, a local, Matilda Fernandes, who runs a grocery store, said at times the area goes without power for over two hours at a stretch. “Several times in the past, the milk packets that I sell have gone stale as the refrigerator stops working on account of the frequent power cuts. This has added to my losses,” said Fernandes.
Fernandes added that even the street lights in the area are not working properly due to which the people have to walk in complete darkness, during the night. He said during the monsoons this problem is compounded as the rain reduces visibility and the street dogs chasing the people.
Kumbarvaddy Panch Lavu Hoble informed that he has approached the Electricity department officials many times, but they have been unable to find a permanent solution to the problem.
“The department has also not undertaken any tree-pruning work in my ward, due to which branches are falling on the electricity lines and this has compounded the problem,” Hoble complained.
Hoble has warned the power officials that he would be forced to complain to the chief minister, power minister and other authorities concerned, if the power situation doesn’t improve in his ward immediately.
When contacted, Electricity department Assistant Engineer Chandramouli informed that a couple of days back he had met the locals and heard their grievances.
“The locals suspected that there was something wrong in the distribution box of the transformer,” he said and added that the issue was checked and sorted out.
“Further, I gave them my number and told them to contact me if there is any problem in their area,” Chandramouli stated and informed that he has not received any complaints after the meeting with the residents of the area.
