Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
With temperatures soaring to 41°C, market activity has already slowed, and frequent, unannounced power cuts over the past 20 days have further worsened the situation for traders. On Wednesday evening, just as customers stepped out for shopping, electricity supply in the main market areas was disrupted yet again, causing major inconvenience.
The issue has persisted for nearly three weeks, with power outages occurring even during peak evening hours in the busy wedding season. Despite paying electricity bills on time, traders are facing losses as customers leave shops due to darkness and heat, especially where backup generators are unavailable.
Areas affected
Frequent outages are being reported in Osmanpura, Kranti Chowk, Paithan Gate, Tilak Path, Aurangpura, Gulmandi, Rangargalli, Machhli Khadak, City Chowk, Sarafa Bazaar, Nirala Bazaar, and nearby areas.
Traders express anger
“Earlier, we used to receive messages about load shedding, but now there are three to four unannounced cuts daily. Why is power disrupted in the main market every evening?” questioned trader Yogendra Mugdiya
Demand for action
Vice-president of the traders’ association, Laxminarayan Rathi demanded an inquiry and action against responsible officials, stating that traders are suffering heavy financial losses and mental stress.
Uday Sahuji added that customers leave immediately during outages due to heat, impacting sales across shops.
Traders plan protest march
With repeated outages and no prior notice even during peak shopping hours the traders’ federation is preparing to stage a protest march to the Mahavitaran office, said president Sanjay Kankariya.