150 families in Chhatak still without electricity despite ‘fully electrified’ status

Despite Chhatak in Sunamganj being declared a ‘fully electrified upazila’ five years ago, 150 families in Jamura Emdadnagar village of Islampur Union still do not have electricity. These families claim that although the Palli Bidyut Samity has installed all the required equipment, they have yet to receive actual electricity connections.

Around 500 villagers say that although the government declared Chhatak fully electrified on February 12, 2020, they remain in darkness. The Palli Bidyut Samity is postponing the electricity connections, blaming administrative issues.

Senior villager Suruj Ali said, "About three years ago, the Palli Bidyut Samity installed electric poles, transformers, service drops, and meters at our homes. However, due to neglect and lack of maintenance, these valuable materials have now been damaged. This is a waste of government funds."

Another resident, Lokman Ahmed, said, "Since we live far from the town, we are not receiving electricity. The Palli Bidyut Samity has been misleading us for a long time. Although they have installed the power lines, they have not provided electricity connections, leaving us in darkness and neglect. We have no choice but to demand our rights from them."

The villagers also point out that without electricity, irrigation is not possible, leaving thousands of hectares of land uncultivated. If electricity is provided to the village, the disadvantaged community will greatly benefit. Electrification will enable the poor and neglected villagers to improve their lives and actively contribute to society.

To address the issue, Mohammad Salik Mia, a member of ward 6 of Islampur Union Parishad, submitted a written request to the General Manager of Sunamganj Palli Bidyut Samity on October 10, 2023. Additionally, on May 19, the villagers raised their concerns during a public hearing organized by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in Sunamganj.

Despite repeated promises to resolve the issue promptly, the officials of Palli Bidyut Samity have yet to take any action. The angry and frustrated villagers complain that no official has even inquired about their situation so far.

Abdur Rashid, AGM of Dowarabazar Palli Bidyut Samity, said, "If the villagers bring all the necessary documents to our office, we will take swift action regarding their electricity connections."