Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 01 May 2024
In response to the ongoing plight of residents grappling with frequent power failures, Mr. TSG Bhasker, the Campaign Committee Chairman of the ANTCC, has escalated concerns to the government, demanding urgent action to alleviate the persistent electricity crisis plaguing the region.
In a formal communication addressed to the Chief Secretary on Wednesday, Mr. Bhasker articulated the profound impact of power outages on the daily lives of islanders, particularly exacerbating challenges during the scorching summer months. He underscored that the recent escalation in power disruptions post-election has magnified the hardships faced by the populace.
“The recurrent power blackouts not only disrupt routine activities but also cast doubts on the reliability and resilience of our infrastructure,” remarked Mr. Bhasker, emphasizing the fundamental right of access to electricity and water, which remains elusive for many residents.
Highlighting the far-reaching consequences of erratic power supply, Mr. Bhasker lamented its detrimental effects on crucial sectors such as commerce, hospitality, education, and healthcare. He expressed grave concerns over the compromised quality of medical services due to prolonged power cuts, citing delays in essential diagnostic procedures and the heightened risk to electrical appliances amid voltage fluctuations and heat waves.
“The financial burden imposed by the necessity of investing in alternative power sources, such as generators or inverters, is unsustainable for many households,” Mr. Bhasker elaborated, advocating for government intervention through subsidies and loan facilities to facilitate the adoption of solar energy solutions.
In his plea for immediate redressal, Mr. Bhasker urged the Chief Secretary to prioritise the implementation of alternative energy initiatives and infrastructure enhancements, emphasising the imperative of securing a stable and consistent power supply for the long term.
In conclusion, Mr. TSG Bhasker implored the government to heed the pressing call for action and institute measures to alleviate the enduring ordeal of power shortages, ensuring the welfare and prosperity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands community.
The letter signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding the energy landscape of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, underscoring the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the systemic challenges impeding progress and development in the region.