Srinagar, December 21: Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) Jammu and Kashmir State President Vivek Bali has expressed serious concern over frequent and unscheduled power cuts across various parts of the Union Territory, stating that the situation has become life-threatening for oxygen-dependent patients and elderly citizens during the harsh winter spell of Chillai Kalan.
In a statement issued here, Vivek Bali said that repeated power outages without prior notice have caused immense hardship, particularly to patients who rely on oxygen concentrators, ventilators, and other life-saving medical equipment that operate on electricity. He emphasized that such disruptions go far beyond inconvenience.
“Unscheduled power cuts are a direct threat to human lives, especially for critically ill and oxygen-dependent patients. During peak winter, electricity becomes a matter of survival,” Bali said.
He further noted that despite repeated assurances from the Power Development Department (PDD) about scheduled electricity supply, the ground situation reflects poor coordination and a lack of accountability. According to him, residents are often left helpless during late-night outages, with no timely information or alternative arrangements in place.
Vivek Bali urged the Power Development Department to strictly follow the announced power schedule and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply, particularly in residential areas, hospitals, and localities housing vulnerable patients.
He also called for the establishment of a dedicated emergency helpline and the provision of reliable backup power solutions in affected areas.
“Electricity is a basic necessity, not a luxury. The government must act immediately to stop these unscheduled power cuts and fix responsibility on officials failing in their duties,” he asserted.
The SBSP reaffirmed its commitment to raising public concerns and standing firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially when basic amenities and human lives are at risk.
