Dehradun – Tensions are rising in Tapovan Phase-5 as local residents protest against the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) for installing high-tension wires through the middle of their residential colony. The residents allege that the work is being carried out hastily, without proper consultation or consent, posing serious safety risks to the community.
According to reports, UPCL is extending a high-tension power line from Tapovan Phase-5 to a newly approved tubewell located near Shastripuram Wal Bhavan. The work began suddenly and is progressing rapidly, even on holidays, which has angered the residents. Locals claim that this move endangers the lives of children, elderly people, and families living in the area.
The colony houses a school with nearly 200 to 300 children, and residents are concerned about the potential dangers this high-voltage line poses to their safety. They have also alleged that authorities and police personnel are threatening them to allow the work, and have blamed local MLA Umesh Kau for being complicit in the project.
In response, the residents have filed a petition in the High Court seeking a stay on the ongoing work. The matter is scheduled for hearing on Monday. Meanwhile, UPCL continues to install poles and wires within the colony, despite public objections.
Residents have demanded that the power line either be routed along the main road or laid underground to avoid any risk to the community. They argue that UPCL is prioritizing cost-cutting over public safety.
Local councilor Rajeev Dobal, who visited the site, acknowledged that the tubewell has been approved near Shastripuram and several routes were considered for the high-tension line. He stated that the final decision to route it through Tapovan Phase-5 was taken after much deliberation. He added that if residents continue to oppose it, he would consult the MLA and explore the possibility of laying the line underground.
Despite these assurances, residents remain unconvinced and continue to voice their opposition. Prominent figures from the community, including Dr. I.P. Saxena, Pooja Amit Kumar, Dr. Subhash Saxena, Dr. Archana Mishra, Captain Amit Kumar, Dr. S.D. Tayal, retired judge Dhirendra Nath, and Dr. Mukul Bhatnagar, have also expressed serious concerns and stood against the project.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on how the authorities respond to the public resistance and whether any action will be taken to address the concerns of the Tapovan Phase-5 residents.
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