Kakinada:The power authorities have advised the Vinayaka pandal organizers to utilize the free power supply provided by the state government by following the rules laid down in this regard.
They advised organizations and individuals to engage licensed linemen to carry out electrical work and not resort to power theft.
Authorities said those who obtained permits through the single window system are allowed to use electricity free of charge for nine days starting from the Vinayaka Chavithi festival, with a limit of 5 kW in urban areas and 3 kW in rural areas. However, if consumption exceeds these limits, organizers will be required to pay a general usage bill. Free power supply is not applicable in such cases.
Electricity officials will continually monitor energy loads during the holiday celebrations. They advised the organizers to set up pandals at a safe distance from electricity poles, lines and transformers. No part of the pandal should come into contact with live wires or electrical installations. According to Eluru District Superintendent Engineer K.M. Ambedkar, every pandal should have a special grounding system.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Konaseema District Operations Circle Superintendent, Engineer B. Rajeshwari, appealed to people to celebrate Vinayaka festival at pandals with utmost care to prevent any electrical accidents.