In preparation for the upcoming festival season, the Kolkata Police and the West Bengal Power Department are implementing measures to ensure public safety and continuous services. The police have imposed a restriction on routine leave for all personnel from September 21 to October 8 and again from October 18 to October 28, aiming to maximize operational capacity during this festive period. Senior officials have been instructed to deny leave requests except in cases classified as “extreme emergencies.”
A notice has clarified that senior officers, including the Joint Commissioners of Police for Crime and Intelligence, as well as all Deputy and Assistant Commissioners, are to withhold routine leave from personnel under their command. Only exceptional circumstances will warrant leave approval. Additionally, officers without stay-out permission are required to stay in their barracks when off duty, facilitating swift deployment if emergencies arise. This policy has raised concerns among some officers, who feel the extended leave restriction creates a backlog of requests, complicating their ability to take time off following the festival season.
Meanwhile, the West Bengal Power Department is gearing up for what is anticipated to be a record demand for electricity during Durga Puja, celebrated from September 28 to October 2. In a review meeting, State Power Minister Aroop Biswas highlighted that the peak load is expected to hit 12,050 MW, a significant rise from last year’s 9,912 MW, indicating over a 21% increase in demand. The minister further noted a remarkable surge in temporary electricity connections for the festival, with 50,550 connections reported in 2024-up by 141% from 2011. Last year, the state registered 56,034 temporary puja connections, consuming 1,403 MW.
To ensure uninterrupted power supply, around 79,414 personnel will be on duty round the clock, supported by nearly 3,700 mobile vans. A 24/7 central Puja Control Room has been established to address consumer issues. Additionally, consumers can contact the toll-free number 19121 or other designated helplines for assistance, while those in distribution areas can reach the Vidyut Bhavan control room at 8900793503 and 8900793504.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/festive-season-preparations-police-restrict-leaves-for-personnel-power-dept-expects-high-demand-10217580/
Category: Cities,Kolkata
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-08-29 04:51:00
