A dispute over the shifting of a high-voltage power line into a residential street in Bhuna town in Fatehabad district has reached the district grievance committee. The committee will hold a hearing on June 8, chaired by Haryana Cabinet Minister Krishan Bedi.
The Issue
The controversy involves an 11-kV power line near Officer Colony on Tohana Road. Residents allege that the line was originally routed over vacant plots but was later shifted to a residential street behind the colony after the installation of three new electricity poles. They claim this move was done to benefit property dealers, ignoring safety regulations.
Safety Concerns
Residents say the high-voltage wires now pass dangerously close to rooftops of several houses, increasing the risk of electric shocks and accidents. They have been protesting for a long time but claim no action was taken.
Financial Irregularities Alleged
The complainants question the financial aspects of the line-shifting exercise. They state that only a nominal estimate was prepared and around Rs 16,000 was deposited in the government account for the work. Meanwhile, property dealers allegedly gained benefits worth crores of rupees due to the change in alignment. Residents also suspect financial irregularities and that officials may have received monetary benefits.
Policy Violation
Under the Haryana Government's current policy, high-voltage lines should be removed from residential areas. However, in this case, the line was shifted from vacant land into a populated locality, which residents say is a violation.
Next Steps
With the matter now before the grievance committee, residents hope for a detailed inquiry. If allegations are proven true, action may be taken against the concerned officials and employees.
