Assam Mala Contractor Faces FIR After Frequent Power Line Disruption in Kalain Electrical Sub-Division.

A significant incident involving the Assam Public Works Department (PWD) contractor working on the Assam Mala project has caused extensive damage to Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) infrastructure. The incident, which occurred on November 7, led to widespread power disruptions in Kalain as HT and LT power lines were struck, triggering a loud explosion heard within a kilometre radius.

Residents in the areas from IOCL Jarailtola to Kalain Bazar are frequently facing electricity outage due to the alleged negligence of the contractor. Yesterday, the people of Jarailtola were left without power for nearly four hours as APDCL teams worked tirelessly to restore electricity damaged by the Assam Mala project workers. According to officials, the damage happened because the contractor continued road widening without first relocating APDCL power lines, a crucial step in safeguarding local infrastructure and public safety.

Sub-Divisional Engineer Subham Das of the APDCL Kalain Electrical Sub-Division has filed an FIR against the contractor, urging the Borkhola Police Station to take necessary action. In the FIR, Das detailed how the ongoing roadworks have repeatedly led to APDCL infrastructure damage, posing a severe risk to residents and animals in the vicinity. Power interruptions have become frequent, causing significant inconvenience to the locals.

APDCL records reveal that the shifting and construction costs for the 33 kV, 11 kV, and LT lines along with Distribution Transformers (DTRs) under the Assam Mala project amount to approximately Rs 9.6 crore, with additional dismantling costs estimated at Rs 1.7 crore. Despite the Chief Engineer, EAP, PWRD, Assam, paying supervision charges earlier in January, the mandated line relocations have yet to be executed, raising questions about project management and accountability.

Local residents expressed frustration over the repeated power outages, with some questioning why the necessary infrastructure protections were overlooked. “We are all for development, but it cannot come at the cost of public safety and routine disruptions,” stated one resident.

While APDCL has urged swift action from law enforcement, the Public Works Department has yet to issue a statement on the incident. In the meantime, APDCL engineers are coordinating with emergency teams to ensure all safety protocols are upheld in any future phases of roadwork in the area.