Many did not get connection on frivolous grounds
LUCKNOW: While the Centre has re-launched a drive to ensure a power connection for all, there are many who have been refused connection on frivolous grounds cited by the officials of the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL).
The applicants are running from pillar to post to get a power connection despite applying on ‘Jhatpat portal’ of the UPPCL.
Jhatpat portal was established by the UPPCL to offer quick service to its customers.
This scheme was for the benefit of those people who still don’t have any electricity connection.
Energy minister Shrikant Sharma has also issued directives to give connections to people without hassles.
“My application number 1006509785 was rejected and the reason cited was un-electrified area. I wonder what they mean by it. If un-electrified houses and areas are not going to get the connection then who will be getting new connections,” said Vivek Tewari, who has applied for connection in village Tala Sarai Unnao.
He said, “The area SDO and executive engineer are not interested in listening to my problems.”
Similarly, Aditya Srivastava, a resident of Nadarganj, said, “I applied for connection a month back. I also deposited Rs 19,167 for connection on application number 1006554256 on Jhatpat portal but I am yet to get a power connection. I have met the SDO and the JE of the area but they are too busy to listen to my complaint.”
Mohammad Asif of Baba Balakdaspuram had applied for connection two months back.
“My application number at Jhatpat portal is 1006552251 but I was denied connection stating that my house is in un-electrified area. I have complained about the refusal of connection to higher officials but nothing has been done so far,” he said.
Chief engineer of Lucknow Electricity Supply Administration (LESA) Madhukar Varma said, “I can’t say about the rest of state but if any connection is refused on frivolous ground in my area it will invite strict action.”
“I will examine the online applications personally and if any engineer is found guilty of not giving connection without any solid reason then action would be taken against him,” he said.