BEST sanctions Rs 20 crore action plan to tackle power outages in Mumbai

BEST said that repair work for critical cable faults will be carried out on a war footing to ensure an uninterrupted and reliable electricity supply for consumers. Representational Pic

In a bid to tackle the rising number of power outage complaints across Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking on Tuesday sanctioned an action plan worth Rs 20 crore to improve the reliability of electricity supply and ensure quicker restoration of power during cable faults.

Focus on improving reliability and faster fault restoration

According to BEST officials, the action plan focuses on deploying additional manpower and repair materials to address off-supply incidents and expedite fault rectification.

690 field workers to be recruited for faster repair response

As part of the initiative, BEST will recruit around 690 field workers to speed up cable fault repair activities. Additionally, 127 motor vehicle drivers and 100 mechanics from the Traffic Division will be temporarily transferred to assist in handling off-supply complaints.

DG sets and aerial lifts to be hired for emergency restoration

The undertaking has also decided to hire DG sets and aerial lifts, along with crew members, for the prompt restoration of power supply during cable fault emergencies.

New fault control unit to come up in Tardeo

To strengthen complaint resolution mechanisms, an additional fault control unit will be established in the Tardeo area for quicker response to off-supply issues.

Critical repairs to be taken up on war footing

BEST further stated that repair work for critical cable faults will be carried out on a war footing to ensure an uninterrupted and reliable electricity supply for consumers.

Frequent power outages spark anger among Girgaon residents; Shiv Sena warns of protest

Residents of South Mumbai's Girgaon area have expressed growing anger over repeated power outages that have disrupted daily life for the past several weeks.

The latest disruption occurred on Monday when several parts of Girgaon experienced a six-hour power disruption from 1.15 am to 7.15 am, adding to mounting public frustration over the recurring issue.

Locals said frequent electricity failures have caused inconvenience to households, businesses, students and senior citizens, raising concerns about the reliability of the power supply network in the area.

Residents confront BEST officials

Amid rising dissatisfaction, members of the residents' group Aamhi Girgaonkar confronted BEST officials late on Sunday night and again on Monday morning, demanding an explanation for the repeated outages.

The group questioned why Girgaon appeared to be facing more electricity disruptions than other parts of South Mumbai.

Gaurav Sagwekar, a representative of Aamhi Girgaonkar, urged residents to unite and seek accountability from BEST officials and elected representatives over the recurring power failures.