High-voltage power lines threaten safety in Amritsar

AAP MLA Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh raised serious concerns in the Punjab Assembly regarding the safety issues caused by high-voltage power lines in residential areas. This issue was discussed during the budget session on Tuesday. Singh specifically pointed out areas in Amritsar, including Musalfabad, Tungbala, and several colonies where 132 KV power lines run through homes. He mentioned that these power lines pose dangers to residents. Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO responded that the government is aware of the problems related to these high-voltage wires. He noted that instructions have been given to address safety concerns. Another MLA, Labh Singh Ugoke, highlighted the daily risks that families face due to these wires. The minister explained that the Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited does not typically install power lines in residential areas, and construction near these lines is not allowed. However, some residents have built illegal structures beneath them. To tackle these safety violations, the government has issued notices to those who constructed unlawfully and is encouraging immediate removal of these buildings. According to regulations, any request to shift or remove power lines must be made by residents at their own expense, as the transmission corporation cannot bear the costs for such changes.