The ongoing strike by power department employees in Phagwara Block has severely disrupted electricity supply, leading to an acute water shortage that forced residents to take to the streets. Prolonged power outages have rendered household water pumps inoperative, leaving many without drinking water amid hot and humid weather.
Residents Protest Outside Power Sub-Station
On Sunday, residents of the Dharamkot locality staged a protest outside the Hoshiarpur road power sub-station. Led by Councillor Veera Ram Valjot, the demonstrators raised slogans against the government and the power department, demanding immediate restoration of electricity. According to Valjot, the area had been without power since Saturday. Residents approaching the power station for assistance were merely told that employees were on strike, with no assurance about when supply would resume. The prolonged outage has made household water pumps non-functional, and inverters have also been exhausted, leaving families without both electricity and water.
Blocked Roads at Bhullarai Chowk
Meanwhile, residents from several villages in Phagwara Block expressed anger by blocking traffic at Bhullarai Chowk. They parked tractor-trolleys on the road, disrupting vehicular movement and demanding immediate action. Protesters said electricity had been unavailable for several hours, making it extremely difficult to stay indoors due to the sweltering weather. Fans, coolers, and other essential electrical appliances have become non-functional, while small businesses and commercial establishments are suffering heavy losses. The protesters urged the government to resolve the deadlock quickly.
Impact on Daily Life and Vulnerable Groups
The power crisis has hit households hard, particularly children, senior citizens, and patients who are most vulnerable to the heat and lack of water. With no electricity for long hours, people are unable to run water pumps, and stored water supplies have run out. The lack of drinking water has become a critical issue, especially as temperatures remain high. The strike by power department employees shows no signs of immediate resolution, leaving the community in distress. Authorities have yet to announce any measures to restore power or provide alternative water supplies.
