Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, May 15:
Residents of twelve villages spanning Ukhrul and Kamjong districts have raised concerns over the erratic power supply plaguing their communities, urging authorities for immediate rectification to alleviate their plight.
At a press conference convened near Gandhi Avenue at Sentinel College in Ukhrul, representatives from the affected villages presented their grievances, emphasizing the dire need for repairs and electrification. Led by Aleng Shaiza, the spokesperson for the villages, they highlighted the chronic issues faced due to inconsistent power provision under the 33/11 KVA Sub-Station at Gamnoum, Shingcha.
The villages represented include Zingsui, Mapum, Shingcha, Maku, Yedah, K.Langli, R. Langli, Chahong Khullen, Chahhong Chingthak, Chahong Phalung, and Apong, all falling under the Sahamphung sub-division of Kamjong District.
Despite previous efforts by the Government of Manipur to electrify these settlements, residents lamented the persistent challenges stemming from irregular power supply. While prepaid meter connections have been installed, the failure to ensure consistent electricity delivery has left villagers grappling with numerous hardships.
Key demands put forth by the villagers include the long-overdue repair and upgrade of power infrastructure, which has remained neglected since the initial electrification efforts in the 1990s. Over the past decade, power supply to these villages has been limited to a single phase, exacerbating the situation.
Furthermore, concerns were raised regarding the inadequate manpower overseeing the power distribution network. With only two linemen responsible for maintaining the entire arterial lines serving multiple villages, residents highlighted the need for additional staff appointments to ensure effective oversight and seamless power supply.
The absence of designated officials, such as Assistant Engineers or Subordinate Officers, further compounds the challenges faced by these communities, leaving them vulnerable to prolonged power outages and infrastructure failures.