Former Odisha chief secretary Pradeep Jena takes dig at TPCODL over power outage

Unscheduled power cuts have become a matter of concern in Bhubaneswar, the state capital even before the arrival of summer. The situation is so bad that former Chief Secretary of Odisha, IAS Pradeep Jena, had to take to social media to vent his anger.

Frustrated with a power cut for an alarming 5 hours, the top bureaucrat took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and slammed Tata Power Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL) on Thursday.

“Hi @TPCentralOdisha No power for > 5hrs in our area in Unit-4 Madhusudan Nagar (Truptee restaurant area). R u preparing for summer by starting maintenance work from night, before sun rise? Great work then. Thanks four such advance preparedness without notice,” Jena took a dig on a lighter note.

No sooner after the IAS officer’s tweet, the power supply was restored.

“Power of X (Twitter). Power restored. Let’s tweet from everywhere whenever power outages happen anywhere in the state,” he then shared.

He further added, “Let’s work on this issue and create pressure on DISCOM for prompt and better response. Requesting TPSODL, TPWODL and TPCODL to remain vigilant and respond promptly to power outrages and other power related issues.”

He also requested the Energy Department, Odisha to monitor power outrages and instruct DISCOMs to ensure that during exam times power outages are prevented or in the worst case minimized to the barest minimum by prompt restoration.

“Let DISCOMS not add to the stress of the students during exams. Hope everybody cooperates,” he added. 

In reply, TPCODL wrote, “Sir, we regret the inconvenience caused. We are getting this checked and shall come back to you on this shortly.”