COIMBATORE: With public frustration exacerbating over the six-month long delay in shifting and installing electricity poles by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL), officials acknowledged the delay, explaining that they are experiencing a shortage of concrete poles due to allotment issues from headquarters.
"All distribution circles in Coimbatore are facing a shortage of electricity poles. Each circle needs at least 500 to 800 concrete poles to handle routine tasks," said a senior TNPDCL official from Coimbatore region.
The Coimbatore region includes Coimbatore, Nilgiris, and Tiruppur districts and comprises seven distribution circles, each with seven divisions and sub-divisions. Typically, the department receives pole allotments at the division level to address field-related needs like new installations, replacements. Concrete EB poles are essential for providing temporary and permanent connections to homes and commercial, as well as for replacing damaged poles and shifting poles. However, work was hindered in the recent months due to these allotment issues.
An industrialist from Thudiyalur area, associated with the Tamil Nadu Association of Cottage and Tiny Enterprises (TACT) applied for the relocation of an electricity pole in August and paid the necessary charges in October. However, after an inspection, he was informed that he would have to wait for several months because previous applicants had not yet received assistance due to the pole shortage. In response, J James, president of TACT, wrote to the Chief Engineer of TNPDCL's Coimbatore Region, urging action to expedite the process for public safety.
"People usually request pole shifting when it poses a threat to their safety. In this case, the applicant applied online and paid the charges. Officials from the Thudiyalur West Sub-Division conducted an inspection but advised him to wait for a few months. It is unfortunate that people are being asked to wait, even after payment. During the rainy season, it is crucial to shift and replace EB poles as required. Unfortunately, the department is struggling due to material shortages," James said.
A senior TNPDCL officer confirmed the situation, saying, "New poles are primarily needed for Deposit Consequences Work (DCW). However, we are running poor on stock and do not have enough poles to manage even the most critical tasks. We are trying to address the situation by sourcing poles from line dismantling works. We have requested additional allotment for Coimbatore and are hopeful we will receive it soon," the officer said.
