With the improvement of water level of Umiam Reservoir, the load shedding in Shillong, Jowai and Tura towns has been further reduced to only two hours and for the rest of the areas of the State to five hours from tomorrow.
It may be mentioned that in the past few weeks, the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) has been continuously trying to reduce the load shedding and it was brought down to five hours from July 12 and four hours from July 15 for the urban areas.
“Load shedding is being slowly lifted, keeping in mind the improvement of water level at Umiam reservoir as well as to sustain the desired water level during the coming winters and until the advent of the next monsoon,” MeECL Chairman and Managing Director Sanjay Goyal said today.
He also mentioned that at present the State is also returning the advanced banked power to the tune of about 450 million units (in total) which was utilised by the state last winter and the lean season.
“MeECL is endeavouring that the present schedule of load shedding is such that it causes minimal inconvenience to the public,” Goyal added.
It may be recalled that the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Ri Bhoi district has alerted the public about the rising water level at Umiam dam.
The DC stated that in the event of further increases, water may be released from the reservoir at any time, posing potential risks downstream.
The DC has issued a cautionary advisory, urging residents residing downstream of Umiam dam to exercise extra vigilance and refrain from approaching rivers or streams to prevent any untoward incidents. The public has been strongly advised to avoid areas near streams, drains, and culverts. Furthermore, in the event of flooding, individuals are urged to stay away from electric poles or power lines to minimise the risk of electrocution.
The warning comes as a proactive measure to ensure the safety and well-being of the community amidst the potential threats associated with rising water levels. Residents residing in the downstream areas of Umiam dam have been urged to remain updated with the latest information from local authorities and follow any further instructions or warnings issued by the concerned authorities.
“By exercising caution and adhering to the safety guidelines, individuals can help mitigate risks and ensure their personal safety during this period of increased water levels,” the DC said.
