Uttar Pradesh’s Urban Development and Energy Minister, AK Sharma, has issued a directive to ensure a continuous, 24-hour power supply across the state in anticipation of the upcoming festive season. This measure is specifically aimed at providing uninterrupted electricity during major celebrations like Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Chhath Puja.
During a virtual review meeting, Minister Sharma emphasized the need for heightened alertness and sensitivity from officials in both the energy and urban development departments to prevent any inconvenience to citizens. He stressed that power cuts during the festive period must be strictly avoided, with continuous monitoring of electricity arrangements being crucial.
Sharma also highlighted the importance of proactively addressing issues such as low voltage and frequent power shutdowns. He instructed that all necessary repair and maintenance work should be completed well in advance of the festivities. Expressing concern over recent accidents caused by faulty wiring, he ordered immediate corrective actions across all distribution circles.
Furthermore, the minister directed that any emergency power outages must be promptly communicated to local representatives and residents. He also addressed the issue of urban areas still receiving power from rural feeders, mandating an immediate switch to urban feeders. To streamline services for consumers, he stressed that pending applications for new power connections should be processed and energized before Diwali.
In parallel, Minister Sharma reviewed urban development preparations. He mandated that all towns maintain cleanliness, ensure road repairs are completed, and that busy market areas are cleaned thoroughly, three times a day. For Chhath Puja specifically, he ordered proper lighting at ghats and ensured smooth road conditions.
Acknowledging complaints about non-functional street lights in Lucknow, Sharma held municipal commissioners and executive officers directly accountable for any lapses in this regard. He also mandated regular fogging, anti-larva spraying, and lime sprinkling to control vector-borne diseases post-monsoon. Waterlogged areas are to be cleared promptly, and campaigns to remove banned plastic and illegal hoardings are to be launched. Existing hoardings should be updated with Diwali greetings and health awareness messages.
Minister Sharma also called for a balanced approach regarding street vendors and hawkers, advising against their removal during festivals in the name of anti-encroachment drives, thus supporting livelihoods while ensuring smooth traffic flow. He concluded by stating that no officer should leave their headquarters during the Diwali and Chhath period, warning of strict action for negligence. The overarching goal, he stated, is to ensure the state reflects cleanliness, discipline, and sensitivity, allowing citizens to celebrate safely and joyfully.