Jammu, January 13 (Scoop News)-Jammu and Kashmir BJP spokesperson and former Vice Chairman Balbir Ram Rattan has expressed grave concern over prolonged and erratic power cuts across the Jammu region, stating that the unreliable electricity supply has made the harsh winter conditions even more unbearable for the people.
In a statement issued today, Balbir said that frequent power outages, especially during early mornings and late nights when temperatures fall sharply, have caused immense hardship. He noted that the biting cold combined with long power cuts has pushed people into distress, with children, senior citizens and patients being the worst affected due to their vulnerability to cold-related ailments.
He pointed out that electricity is a basic necessity during winters, as most households depend on electric heaters, blowers and geysers to keep warm. However, unpredictable power supply has rendered these appliances useless. Power cuts without prior notice, he said, leave families helpless in freezing conditions.
Balbir also highlighted that areas equipped with smart meters are facing the same situation. Despite assurances that smart meters would ensure uninterrupted supply, residents continue to suffer long outages. The promised improvement in power management has failed to materialize on the ground, he added.
Referring to students, Balbir said their studies are being badly affected due to lack of electricity during evening and night hours. He further stated that traders, shopkeepers and small business owners are also incurring losses as work in shops, workshops and small industrial units comes to a halt during frequent outages.
Criticising the concerned departments, Balbir said that claims of winter preparedness have fallen flat, as people continue to suffer year after year. He urged the government to intervene immediately and ensure minimal power cuts during peak winter hours.
Appealing for a humanitarian approach, Balbir emphasized that electricity during winters is not a luxury but a necessity, and the people of Jammu should not be forced to battle extreme cold due to administrative failure.
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