Sigh of relief for Chamba district residents as 78 roads, 350 power transformers become operational

Chamba: Residents in Chamba district breathed a sigh of relief as clear weather allowed people to enjoy the sunlight, while the Electricity Board and Public Works Department worked diligently to restore affected services. Due to heavy rain and snowfall, all sub-districts, except Pangi, now have regained road connectivity. Snow removal efforts are underway in Pangi Valley on closed roads.

Assistant engineer, PWD circle, Dalhousie, DS Pathania, reported that out of 166 closed roads in the district, 78 were opened by Friday evening, and the remaining ones will be opened soon.

He mentioned that the past three days of heavy rain and snowfall resulted in a significant loss of Rs 5 crore for the Public Works Department in Chamba. Additionally, the Electricity Board is actively working to reopen closed power transformers and lines. As of Friday morning, 600 power transformers were non-functional, plunging numerous villages in darkness. By Friday evening, the Board successfully restored 350 non-operational transformers, bringing relief to the affected residents. Dalhousie Electricity Board circle official Rajiv Thakur highlighted that the electricity infrastructure in Pangi, Tissa, and Salooni was severely impacted. Approximately 90 transformers in Tissa, 75 in Salooni, 60 in Pangi, 50 in Bharmour, and 25 in Kothi are currently non-functional. He assured that if the weather continues to remain clear for the next two to three days, all non-operational transformers will be reactivated.