Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 08 August 2025
A delegation of Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members on 7th August 2025 met the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to express grave concern over the continuing irregular power supply affecting various parts of South Andaman.
The delegation included prominent local representatives such as Ms. V. K. Mariyam Bibi, Ex-Adhyaksha Zilla Parishad and Zilla Parishad Member, Bambooflat; Ms. Padmavathi, Pramukh, Panchayat Samiti Ferrargunj; Mr. Shafique, Pradhan, Mithakhari; Mr. Venkat Rao, Pradhan, Namunaghar; Mr. Anand Amrit Raj, Pradhan, Tushnabad; Ms. Rasheeda, Pradhan, Hopetown; Ms. Naseema, Pradhan, Bambooflat; Mr. Ram Babu, Pradhan, Wimberlygunj; and Mr. Sunil, Pradhan, Ferrargunj.
The PRI members highlighted the severe impact of frequent and unscheduled power cuts on the daily lives of residents, particularly the elderly, patients, business owners, and those dependent on electronic and kitchen appliances. They noted that healthcare services, small businesses, and household routines have been significantly disrupted due to the erratic supply.
Although a power cut schedule is regularly published in the Daily Telegram, the delegation pointed out that actual outages often deviate from the announced timings, creating confusion and inconvenience for the public.
Responding to their concerns, the Chief Secretary acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and informed the delegation that a 10 MW power plant is currently being installed at Chatham and is expected to become operational within three months. He assured the PRI members that once the plant is commissioned, the power situation is expected to stabilize.
To improve transparency, the Chief Secretary further committed to ensuring that morning and evening power cut schedules will be published in advance. He also requested PRI members to report any unscheduled outages directly to him for immediate redressal.
Additionally, he shared that the Administration is actively planning the installation of solar power systems in government offices, Panchayat Bhavans, and other public institutions, aiming to strengthen the power infrastructure at the grassroots level.
The PRI delegation appreciated the Chief Secretary’s proactive response and urged for swift execution of the proposed measures in the interest of public welfare.
