Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr. 6: Former Pramukh of Mayabunder, Mr. Abdul Siddique, has submitted a representation to the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner (HQ) of North and Middle Andaman, raising concern over the recurring power supply disruptions in Mayabunder and seeking immediate intervention to resolve the issue.
In his letter, Mr. Siddique highlighted that power supply in Mayabunder has been severely affected since April 5 due to the failure of an engine at the Panighat Power House. He pointed out that such disruptions have become frequent, with electricity remaining unavailable for several hours on multiple occasions.
Despite repeated complaints, the issue continues to persist, raising serious questions about the functioning of the system. The electricity supply contract, he noted, has been awarded to Mona Company, which is reportedly being paid substantial amounts every month to ensure uninterrupted power supply. However, the absence of a permanently stationed qualified technician at the Panighat Power House has been cited as a major concern. According to Siddique, technicians visit occasionally from the mainland, carry out temporary repairs, and leave, resulting in recurring breakdowns.
He stressed the need for strict monitoring and a thorough inquiry into the functioning of both the contractor and the Electricity Department to ensure accountability and prevent any misuse. He further emphasized that the Electricity Department must ensure proper supervision and deploy permanent technical staff at the power house.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Mr. Siddique stated that Mayabunder, being the district headquarters, houses key government offices, major departments, and the district hospital. Frequent power failures disrupt essential services, affect government functioning and banking operations, hamper students’ studies, and severely impact patient care. The business community, he added, is also suffering significant losses due to the ongoing issue.
On behalf of the residents of Mayabunder, Mr. Siddique urged the authorities to arrange alternative power supply from Diglipur or Rangat, as was done earlier, until the fault is fully rectified. He also called for the permanent deployment of qualified technical personnel at the Panighat Power House to ensure smooth and uninterrupted electricity supply.
He appealed for immediate intervention and strict action against those responsible, in the larger public interest.
