Baramulla, March 8, KNT: Residents of Pattan area in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have raised concerns over alleged mismanagement and staff shortage at the Power Development Department (PDD) Sub Division office in Pattan, urging authorities to intervene and streamline the functioning of the office.
Locals alleged that the prevailing administrative situation in the office has caused inconvenience to consumers visiting the department for electricity-related services.
According to locals, several officials reportedly arrive late to the office and leave early, resulting in delays in addressing public grievances.
Consumers also alleged that some staff members behave in an inappropriate manner with visitors and impose unnecessary formalities even for minor works, leading to frustration among people seeking assistance.
They further claimed that the concerned Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) has failed to effectively monitor the functioning of the office and bring discipline among staff members.
The aggrieved consumers have appealed to the Managing Director of Jammu and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JKPDCL) to look into the matter and order an immediate reshuffle of staff in the PDD Sub Division Pattan.
Locals said such a step would help restore efficiency in the office and ensure that public grievances related to electricity services are addressed in a timely manner.
Locals also demanded strict implementation of the biometric attendance system to ensure accountability among employees.
They alleged that it remains unclear how officials are drawing salaries without proper verification of biometric attendance records.
Consumers further complained that obtaining even a single new electricity connection involves lengthy procedures and repeated visits to the office.
The problem, they said, has been compounded by the non-availability of smart meters, which continues to cause inconvenience to consumers.
Residents expressed hope that higher authorities would intervene and take necessary steps to improve the functioning of the department for the benefit of the public. [KNT]
