MARGAO: The residents of Salcete have complained about the frequent power cuts during the festive Diwali season.
While the numerous power outages have forced shopkeepers and other commercial establishments to scramble for power back-ups, residents have expressed fear that their expensive electrical appliances may get damaged due to power surges that often occur when the power is restored after an outage. While not everyone has the luxury of power-back-up, the outages are proving a dampener for people who have taken efforts to illuminate their homes and shops for the festival. “When it rained recently and there was thunder and lightning, the voltage fluctuations left us worried. We have guests visiting as well, and it is a bit embarrassing when there is no power, especially at night,” said Rupali Naik from Cuncolim.
A shopkeeper from Margao lamented that there were as many as eight power cuts in a day but pointed out that the power was restored quickly.
A restauranter from Colva complained that the frequent power cuts affect their business very badly, as they are unable to use their coffee machines, juicers, blenders or ovens, and customers leave upset.
With tourists thronging the coastal belt for the holidays, the power outages have irked restaurateurs who hoped that there would not be so many interruptions during the tourist season that has just begun. “The erratic power situation does not project a good image for Goa as a tourist destination,” said a bar owner.
