INAYAT QAYOOM
Baramulla , January,31 :
Anger and frustration spilled onto the streets of Watergam village of Wagoora Baramulla on Friday as residents staged a protest against the installation of smart meters, citing concerns over inflated electricity bills and financial burdens. Simultaneously, residents of Mustafa Colony Pattan hit the streets, blocking the highway for several hours in protest against frequent power transformer breakdowns leaving them in darkness.
The demonstrators in Wagoora Watergam raised slogans against the power department, demanding an immediate rollback of the smart meter installation drive. Protesters alleged that the new meters have led to exorbitant electricity bills, making it difficult for low-income households to cope. “We cannot afford these soaring power bills. The government must reconsider its decision and provide relief to the common people,” said one of the protesters.
Meanwhile, in Mustafa Colony Pattan, angry residents took to the streets and blocked the highway, disrupting traffic for hours. They expressed their resentment over the repeated breakdown of power transformers, which they claim the authorities have failed to address despite repeated pleas. “We are suffering immensely due to prolonged power outages. Every time the transformer breaks down, we have to wait for days for repairs. The authorities must take immediate action and provide a permanent solution,” said a resident participating in the protest.
The road blockade led to massive traffic congestion, leaving commuters stranded for hours. Police and district officials rushed to the scene to pacify the protesters and assured them that their grievances would be addressed. Following assurances from officials, the residents finally dispersed, restoring normalcy to the area.
Residents from both Wagoora Watergam and Mustafa Colony have urged the administration to step in and resolve their concerns before the situation escalates further. They have warned of intensified protests if their demands are not met promptly.
Later, police reached on the spot and pacified the protestors assuring them that their demands will be taken up with concern departments. The protestors dispersed peacefully.