Faulty LT line, dilapidated poles damage transformer in Zahid Bagh Pulwama
Residents demand immediate upgrade
Pulwama: The residents of Zahid Bagh area in Litter tehsil of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district have expressed strong resentment over frequent damage to the local electricity transformer, blaming it on the poor condition of the Low Tension (LT) line and worn-out electricity poles.
The recurring faults, they say, have not only plunged the area into darkness repeatedly but also caused serious inconvenience to households, students and small shopkeepers.
According to locals, the LT line supplying power to the area is outdated and loosely strung, while several poles are either tilted or damaged. During even minor wind or load fluctuations, faults occur, resulting in short circuits that ultimately damage the transformer.
“The transformer here has been damaged multiple times, not because of overuse by consumers, but due to the faulty LT line and unsafe poles,” said a local resident. “Every time there is a spark or a line clash, the transformer bears the brunt, and we are left without electricity for days.”
Residents said the problem has persisted for a long time, despite repeated complaints to the Power Development Department (PDD).
They allege that instead of addressing the root cause, temporary repairs are carried out, which fail to provide any lasting solution.
“Officials come, do some patchwork, and leave. After a few days, the same problem resurfaces,” another resident said. “Why should we suffer again and again when the solution is simple—upgrade the LT line and replace the damaged poles?”
The locals also questioned the justification behind the continuous increase in electricity tariffs when basic infrastructure remains neglected.
“Electricity tariffs are being increased almost every month, but on the ground, the condition of power infrastructure is deteriorating,” said an elderly resident. “If we are paying more, shouldn’t we at least get a stable and safe power supply?”
Students preparing for examinations said frequent power cuts are affecting their studies, while households complained of damage to electronic appliances due to voltage fluctuations.
“We fear switching on our appliances because sudden fluctuations can damage them,” said a shopkeeper. “Who will compensate us for these losses?”
Residents of Zahid Bagh have demanded immediate upgrading of the LT line, replacement of old and damaged poles, and installation of protective mechanisms to prevent transformer damage.
They warned that if the issue is not resolved soon, they would be left with no option but to stage protests to draw the attention of higher authorities.
“We want a permanent solution, not assurances,” locals said, urging the authorities to act before the situation worsens further.
