Faulty transformer poses problems for Kanchi villagers

The transformer located on the Ambedkar Nagar Main Road has forced people to either avoid the stretch or be extremely cautious while crossing the area as the structure is under the threat of falling down any moment. 

“There are as many as 600 families residing in the locality who are getting electricity through the transformer. The transformer was constructed about 20 years ago and was not repaired after that. We have taken the issue to the local MLA many times and have even petitioned the district collector but no action has been taken,” said Sathya Sekar, former president of the Paiyanoor village Panchayat. 

Residents also claimed that the 100-kilowatt transformer often develops fault during the night and that the Elec-tricity Board (EB) do not come to attend it. 

They demanded the transformer to be upgraded to prevent the frequent power cuts and replacement of old and damaged posts. 

R Umapathi, a social activist who is also a realtor, said that several prospective land owners who came to their vil-lage to buy properties changed their decision after seeing the condition of the transformer. “We plan to stage a protest on the main road soon if no action is taken,” he said.  

When contacted, Rajarajan, Thiruporur Additional Divisional Engineer, TANGEDCO, told DT Next, “We need as many as eight posts for the transformer and have placed an order. We expect to get them soon. We will surely re-place the posts and the transformer within a few weeks.”