RDSS Electricity Work Remains Incomplete After Seven Months, Villagers Flag Serious Safety Hazards In MP's Manawar

In Manawar, Madhya Pradesh, seven months after the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) began in Gulati village, work remains unfinished, according to local residents. The villagers have expressed serious concerns over the quality of installation and safety hazards. They allege that 25-foot iron channel poles were installed in pits only one foot deep and filled with cement, posing a risk of collapse during strong winds.

Unsecured cables scattered on roads for extended periods have also raised concerns. Some sections were lifted onto poles only after the issue was brought to attention through media reports.

Kailash Sanpada, a resident, pointed out that the digging of a pit for a pole outside his house damaged the village's main drinking water pipeline, leading to contamination. He demanded immediate completion of the work or removal of the pole and filling of the pit. The contractor, a tailor by profession, has also been questioned for his technical expertise by the villagers.

They have also accused the sarpanch and district panchayat representative Kapil Solanki of neglect despite numerous complaints. A senior official from the Electricity Department, Kalam Tadwad, expressed surprise at the delay and promised an investigation and corrective action. Residents are demanding a transparent audit, poles installed according to standards, closure of open pits, and legal or disciplinary action against those responsible.