The Diplomat Desk
Jammu :TDD, Despite the passage of over 1437 days since the allocation of ₹58.70 lakh under the Capex Budget for 2021-22, the Power Development Department (PDD) has failed to shift the hazardous 33 KV Double Circuit (DC) line in Jhajjar Kotli, Tehsil Dansal, District Jammu, to a safer location.
The 33 KV DC power line, installed in the 1970s, now dangerously traverses densely populated areas, posing severe risks to life and property. The conductor wires, weakened with age and visible cracks, are on the verge of snapping. Despite the dire condition of the infrastructure, repeated pleas from residents, and several instances of wire breakages—including one that caused injuries in 2019—the PDD has failed to act.
The decades-old line passes perilously close to residential areas, affecting more than 30 families in Jhajjar Kotli. “The wires could snap at any time, endangering lives. The PDD’s inaction despite sufficient funds and consistent appeals is a betrayal of public trust,” said a distressed resident.
The project to shift the 33 KV line was tendered in December 2021. However, despite erecting poles and spending more than 75% of the allocated funds, the work has come to a standstill. The department cites alleged right-of-way (ROW) issues as the cause, but residents counter that these claims are baseless. Landowners have provided revenue documents and no-objection affidavits, clearing the way for the project.
The government has legal provisions under the Electricity Act and Telegraph Act to address ROW issues.The lack of decisive action highlights the inefficiency and complacency of the PDD,” noted another resident.
Frustrated by the department’s inaction, the residents have called on the Chief Minister and Dy. Chief Minister to take immediate steps to resolve the issue. “We have submitted numerous representations, from the office of XEN PDD STD Udhampur to the Commissioner Secretary PDD, but our concerns have fallen on deaf ears. The department’s indifference has left us living under constant fear,” said a local representative.
The residents demand Immediate action to resolve ROW issues using legal provisions under Section 164 of the Electricity Act and Section 10 and 16 of the Telegraph Act, Completion of the project without further delays to ensure the safety of the affected families.
The lackadaisical approach of the PDD has not only endangered lives but also risks wasting public funds. Residents urge the Hon’ble Chief Minister and Dy. Chief Minister to hold the department accountable for this prolonged delay and ensure the funds allocated for the project are utilized effectively.
This issue underscores the urgent need for stronger accountability mechanisms in public departments to prevent such delays in critical infrastructure projects. The residents of Jhajjar Kotli hope for decisive action to ensure their safety and security.TDD
