Anantnag, Feb 25: People from several localities of south Kashmir’s Anantnag town have alleged that they are facing up to six hours of power curtailment daily during the holy month of Ramazan, purportedly due to non-payment of electricity bills by some consumers.
Inhabitants of Lal Chowk, Mattan Chowk, Dangarpora, Khanabal, Nai Basti and Malak Nag said the curtailment has disrupted routine life, particularly during Sehri and Iftar hours when electricity demand is high.
Locals claimed that officials of the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited have linked the extended curtailment to outstanding dues in certain areas. However, consumers who said they have cleared their bills questioned what they described as a collective punishment approach.
“Why should A be punished for the fault of B,” said Irshad Abdullah, a local inhabitant, adding that several residents who are regular in bill payments are being subjected to inconvenience. He alleged that despite repeated representations to the department not to resort to what he termed an illogical practice, the curtailment continues.
Locals said prolonged outages during Ramazan are causing hardship to families, particularly in the evening and pre-dawn hours.
Assistant Executive Engineer Bashir Ahmed said he would look into the matter and take it up with higher authorities. He assured that the grievances of consumers would be examined. [KNT]
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