Low voltage, frequent power cut shakes Nabarangpur; irked farmers hit roads

Fed up with low voltage and frequent power cuts since the last six months, hundreds of farmers hit the roads in Odisha’s Nabarangpur district. More than hundred farmers staged road blockade and continued their protest for over 27 hours over low voltage and unscheduled power cuts that have left Raighar and 26 other panchayats in intermittent darkness.

Their demands centre on the resolution of frequent power cuts and low voltage, issues that have left the region in the dark, with 26 surrounding panchayats also affected.

Rising Tempers Amidst Unyielding Heat

The intense summer heat has amplified the discomfort for residents already struggling without a consistent power supply. Local dissatisfaction is mounting as electricity department workers hesitate to undertake repairs, fearing protestor backlash, which in turn perpetuates the power supply disruptions.

“Over 24 panchayats have been reeling under low voltage since the last six months. The farmers are the worst hit who need electricity for farming. Last week also we staged a demonstration and have handed over numerous complaints. However, they are turning deaf ears to our pleas,” alleged a farmer.

Likewise, another farmer alleged, “Our main problem is low voltage. Hundreds of farmers have borrowed loans for their agriculture. However, the electricity department is least bothered about our woes. Acres of standing paddy are getting destroyed due to the power cuts and low voltage.”

Promises of Resolution

Farmers remain steadfast, demanding that authorities take immediate corrective measures to alleviate the pressing inconvenience they face daily.

The officer from the electricity department's subdivision commented, “The issue has prevailed for quite some time. We are working to restore full voltage, and a solution will be provided shortly.”

When contacted, Swaroop Kumar Patra, Sub-divisional electric officer said, “We had promised that we would try to resolve the issues. But, I request them to be patient. Efforts are on to restore the voltage and it is taking some time.”