Sunday Spent in 'Darkness' in Goradih and Jagdishpur Blocks; Power Outage Due to Tree Trimming Leaves Residents Helpless
BHAGALPUR: The residents of dozens of villages in the Goradih and Jagdishpur blocks suffered the consequences of the electricity department’s arbitrary and poor management on Sunday. On a day when most people were home due to the holiday and had planned to finish essential chores, the power supply was cut off early in the morning. This prolonged power outage, carried out by the electricity department in the name of tree cutting and trimming, severely disrupted daily life for the common people.
Power Cut on a Holiday Increases Hardship
Sunday is typically meant for household chores and rest, but the erratic power supply created significant trouble for the villagers. Several villages in Goradih and Jagdishpur remained engulfed in darkness from the morning hours. Residents reported that the department had not provided any prior notice regarding the power outage. As soon as the day began, the power vanished and was not restored until late in the evening, severely affecting daily routines.
Scarcity of Water and Food
The worst impact of the power cut was felt on the water supply in homes. In most households, water tanks are filled using motor pumps (submersibles). Without electricity, the tanks ran dry, forcing residents to struggle for drinking and bathing water. Many were compelled to fetch water from distant hand pumps.
The situation was similar regarding meal preparations. Food items stored in refrigerators were on the verge of spoiling. In rural areas, where people rely on electrical appliances (such as induction stoves, mixers, or water filters) for lunch, the disruption caused immense frustration. Housewives mentioned that due to the water shortage and lack of power, kitchen tasks could not be completed on time.
The Tree-Cutting Controversy: Lack of Planning
Officials from the electricity department argued that turning off the power was necessary to trim branches growing near power lines before the monsoon, preventing short circuits or accidents. However, the villagers have raised questions: could this work not have been planned in a more organized manner?
Unannounced Outage: Villagers allege that the department did not provide accurate information about the timing of the work.
Questioning Management: Residents asked if the work could have been performed at night or on a regular working day when the impact would have been minimized. Cutting power for the entire Sunday reflects poorly on the department's efficiency.
Impact on Students and Traders
Due to the summer heat, conditions inside homes became suffocating without electricity. This also impacted the education of children. Students preparing for competitive exams, who usually dedicate Sunday to extra studies, were left struggling without fans or light. Meanwhile, small traders in the area, who rely on electronic equipment in their shops, had their businesses come to a complete standstill.
Outrage Among Villagers
A local resident of Jagdishpur block expressed his anger, stating, "The electricity department should understand its responsibility. Tree trimming is necessary, but not at the cost of leaving the public thirsty and distressed. If they had to do the work, they could have cut power to different feeders in turns, so that the entire area wouldn't be plunged into darkness at once."
Silence from the Electricity Department
When officials from the regional power supply center (sub-station) were contacted, they stated that the work was necessary under safety standards. However, they offered no clear apology for the outrage and inconvenience caused to the villagers, only providing assurances that the work would be completed.
Waiting for Improved Systems
The power situation in Goradih and Jagdishpur on Sunday highlights the growing disconnect between the department and its consumers. On one hand, the department cites safety; on the other, the general public struggles without basic amenities. Villagers are now demanding that in the future, whenever such maintenance work is carried out, a notice should be issued at least 24 hours in advance so that they can make alternative arrangements.
This incident serves as a lesson that development and maintenance work should be conducted with the public's convenience in mind. Until then, villagers are hoping for a better Sunday next time.
