Nongpoh, Oct 13: The Khasi Students Union (KSU), Nongpoh Circle on Tuesday met the Ri Bhoi Deputy Commissioner to flag frequent electricity breakdowns in Nongpoh and adjoining areas.
Led by General Secretary Baiashanlang Kharshanlor, the delegation said the demand for reliable supply and a 132/33 kV substation at Nongpoh dates back to 2012, when KSU along with NGOs and headmen first raised the issue. Despite repeated representations, disruptions continue.
The demand was reiterated in 2023 through a memorandum on August 3 and a rally.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner assured to take up the matter with MeECL at the earliest and to convene a joint meeting of the district administration, MeECL and KSU to identify solutions.
Speaking to reporters, Kharshanlor said the “hide and seek” of power continues despite years of appeals. He said frequent cuts affect residents, businesses, entrepreneurs and students. While the government encourages entrepreneurship, unreliable supply makes operations difficult, especially for small businesses that cannot afford generators.
He also questioned why Nongpoh faces recurring cuts while industrial belts like Umiam and Byrnihat face fewer interruptions.
KSU said as a district headquarter, Nongpoh needs stable power for offices, schools, healthcare, businesses and households, and urged MeECL and administration to work towards a sustainable solution.
