Paralyzing Manhattan: The Real Cause of Blackouts
How ironic that the blackout in New York City that impacted a stretch of the West Side of Manhattan happened on the anniversary of the great blackout of 1977 — a day marred by looting and violence (“Midtown power down,” July 14).
New York and many other cities across the United States have reached a critical point, where power failure is not an option.
Imagine being trapped in the dark elevators or subways with soaring temperatures. If you happen to be infirm, disabled or claustrophobic, it’s even worse.
In the light of this power outage, it’s clear the city needs a reliable backup, like a supplementary grid that kicks in during such unforeseen emergencies. Atul Karnik Woodside
Gov. Cuomo tried to be the hero and take credit for something that had nothing to do with him.
He sounded important, calling for an investigation into the blackout. As if Con Edison, or any public utility or contractor for that matter, would not perform an investigation after a power outage. Give me a break, Governor. John Clabough Pine Bush
The recent Con Ed blackout in Midtown is the tip of the iceberg. When Indian Point is shut in 2022, blackouts and brownouts will be the norm for New York.
In fact, the absence of an energy plan for electricity and natural gas will paralyze the state, due to the governor’s shortsightedness. James Foley Airmont
After the unexplained blackout, Gov. Cuomo said that Con Edison “does not have a franchise granted by God” and “can be replaced,” but this company acts like it does have that franchise.
Con Ed’s gas workers broke a water main on our street, refused to shut off the flood water into our home for two days and then denied that it, was even doing work in the area. I had to sue them to get them to be accountable. It’s time for this monopoly to be replaced. Andrew Delaney Manhattan
New York City should require backup generators in high-rise buildings for elevators.
Getting stuck in an elevator for hours is scary and could be dangerous for the elderly and those with medical issues.
When thousands of people are out of power — as was the case on Saturday night — it’s impossible for first responders to quickly respond to every elevator outage when there are so many other emergencies. Paul Feiner Greenburgh