The Hindu : New Delhi News : Shalimar Bagh residents want insulated power wires

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Tuesday, May 05, 2009
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New Delhi

Shalimar Bagh residents want insulated power wires

Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI: Residents of Block BC in Shalimar Bagh here want their power distribution company, North Delhi Power Limited, to rectify the problem of old and uncovered wires hanging precariously close to their houses, but the company in turn has shot off letters accusing the residents of building illegal houses close to the wires.

The residents, who had complained to the Lieutenant-Governor’s office, claim that the wires hang dangerously close to their houses and sparking is a common occurrence every time it rains.

“What we have been complaining of are loose and naked wires. Most of the colonies in Delhi under BSES have been provided covered insulated wires so that during rains or dust storms they do not touch each other and lead to frequent power cuts,” said a local resident, Ritesh Dewan.

Complaining that the company, instead of rectifying the problem, had issued a notice to the residents, he said: “The whole onus has been put on the residents. It seems the residents will be responsible if a wire falls on them.”

The power distribution company denies it has been negligent. A company spokesperson said: “The wires have been laid more than 40 years ago. The residents have gradually encroached and constructed illegal structures beyond the permissible height. We have already notified the residents and even the Municipal Corporation of Delhi.”

The residents claim their buildings are not illegal.

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