In a bid to strengthen Uttar Pradesh's power system during the peak summer season, Energy Minister AK Sharma on Saturday declared that tripping is unacceptable and directed a 24x7 power supply across the state.
Consumer-Friendly Directives
At a review meeting with officials in Varanasi, Sharma issued several key consumer-centric directives. He announced that power connections up to 1 kW will not be disconnected even if the balance is negative. Consumers with up to 2 kW will receive relief of up to Rs 200. The minister ordered that before any disconnection, five SMS alerts must be sent in phases. Additionally, power supply will not be cut on Sundays and public holidays, even if the balance is negative. Sharma directed strict compliance with these provisions to provide relief to consumers and ensure transparency.
24x7 Power Response Vans
To ensure an uninterrupted, safe, and high-quality power supply for Varanasi consumers, Sharma inaugurated two state-of-the-art 24x7 response vans in the city to cut downtime during electrical faults. Both vehicles are equipped with modern safety gear and essential tools and plants (T&P) kits to handle any technical challenge. To provide genuine round-the-clock service, staff will work in three 8-hour shifts daily. Each shift will have a team of skilled personnel including a supervisor, lineman, and helper.
Key functions of the 24x7 emergency vans include maintaining HT lines, fixing breakdowns, and replacing transformers or cross arms on the spot. They will also be tasked with locating underground faults using advanced tools, replacing old AB cables and damaged conductors, and fixing or replacing poles damaged by disasters or accidents.
Underground Cabling and Infrastructure
Sharma also reviewed the progress on underground cabling and ordered faster execution. He stated that work must be planned as per the growing power demand to avoid future disruptions. Calling Varanasi a key religious and tourist city, Sharma emphasized that arrangements here must be top-grade and directed officials to complete all work on time, transparently, and with quality so that people get better facilities.
Drain Cleaning and Urban Development
The minister also instructed officials to speed up drain cleaning to prevent waterlogging during the monsoon. He asserted that waterlogging must not occur under any circumstances. The Nagar Nigam and Jalkal Department were directed to finish the work on time through coordination. Reviewing road and urban beautification projects, Sharma directed that interlocking along roadsides be completed on priority. He also called for a strict anti-encroachment drive, stating that it would improve city management and accessibility.
