Illegal colonies still suffer power woes

No space to install new transformers

Residents of unauthorised colonies that house a bulk of Aam Aadmi Party supporters may continue to reel under outages this summer as private power distribution companies are struggling to find space in these unplanned areas to upgrade equipment.

The power distribution companies, popularly known as discoms, say they do not have adequate space to install new transformers, substations or circuit boards to keep pace with the growing demand in these colonies.

“The discoms aren’t able to augment their infrastructure in such areas leading to frequent overloading of the distribution system and outages,” said an official with a discom.

Unauthorised colonies in Sarita Vihar, Dwarka, Mayur Vihar, Khirki Extension, Seelampuri, Kalyanpuri, Kondli, Shahdara and Wazirpur have been identified as “critical areas” which could face long power cuts, despite the AAP government’s promise to make the summer less harsh for them. The official said that these colonies are affecting the discoms’ overall performance record.

“There is no place for installing and laying new infrastructure. The residents not only don’t allow erecting new poles in front of their houses but also don’t provide any space for installation of new transformers,” added the official.

Encroachments are another issue being faced by the discoms.“Many electricity poles in such colonies have been covered, removed or damaged by the inhabitants,” the official said.

Threat to safety“Due to rampant encroachments, the entire area is sitting on a tinder-box – posing a serious threat to the safety of the residents.” The discoms said they need to strengthen distribution system for meeting the existing demand. 

“For this, we need suitable space for installing new transformers and electric poles,” the official said.

The discoms is also dealing with a spate of power theft cases in unauthorised colonies.

“Power theft increases during the summer months, putting further strain on the system. This is not only resulting in substantial revenue loss to the discoms, but is also increasing the number of trippings and local breakdowns,” he added.

“Efforts of enforcement teams to check the irregularities have been thwarted by residents. Whenever enforcement teams reach there, residents of the area gherao them and don’t let them check their premises.”

Realising its promise, the AAP slashed power tariffs to 50 per cent starting March 1.Though the discoms have been seeking a 16 to 20 per cent hike in tariffs during the rate revision proceedings before the regulator Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC), the city government is opposing the same.