Why is there no electricity in Meghalaya village?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a heartening turn of events, Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma restores electricity to Pahamjula village after 18 years of darkness, highlighting the government's commitment to address rural issues.
Key Takeaways
- Chief Minister Sangma's visit highlights the importance of direct engagement with rural communities.
- Restoration of electricity in Pahamjula village after 18 years signifies a major milestone.
- Government initiatives like CM-Connect aim to address long-standing infrastructural issues.
- Local leadership plays a crucial role in advocating for community needs.
- The villagers' experience underscores the necessity for equitable development across all regions.
Shillong, May 22 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, made a significant visit to Pahamjula village in the Jirang constituency of Ri-Bhoi district on Thursday, where residents have faced an astounding 18 years without electricity.
This village, which consists of 77 households, has remained in darkness since a transformer failure in 2007.
The Chief Minister's visit was prompted by a request from the locals, who sought help in repairing the longstanding transformer issue. Sangma acknowledged the situation as a clear case of neglect and committed to prioritizing the concerns of the community.
“This level of neglect is unacceptable. We consider it our duty to listen to and address the grievances of our citizens,” he stated.
After the Chief Minister's intervention, the transformer was successfully repaired, and power was restored within three days.
Residents, led by MLA Sosthenus Sohtun, had reached out to Sangma just last Friday. Upon his arrival, the villagers expressed profound relief and gratitude, describing the return of electricity as a moment that lifted them out of “hell,” reflecting on the long-standing neglect they endured.
This visit was part of the “CM-Connect” initiative, which emphasizes the government's dedication to fostering development at the grassroots level and addressing enduring challenges faced by remote communities.
The Chief Minister expressed his pleasure in being able to engage directly with the people of Pahamjula, stating, “Being here with the villagers today is a small yet profoundly happy moment for me.”
“It brings me joy to share in their triumph after an 18-year wait for this transformer,” he added.
Sosthenes Sohtun, the MLA for the Jirang constituency, expressed his appreciation for the Chief Minister's visit and commended his efforts in advancing development in the area. He noted the importance of continued improvements, particularly in road connectivity and electrification for the remaining unconnected villages.
The Chief Minister elaborated on the unique features of the “CM Connect” program, suggesting that meals during such events should be prepared by local villagers using ingredients sourced from their community. “This initiative aims to strengthen the bond between the government and the public,” he remarked.
Point of View
The visit of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma to Pahamjula village serves as a reminder of the pressing infrastructure challenges faced by rural communities in India. The government's responsiveness to the citizens' plight is commendable and reflects a growing awareness of the need for equitable development across regions. Ensuring access to basic amenities like electricity can significantly enhance the quality of life in these areas.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Pahamjula village been without electricity?
Pahamjula village has been without electricity for 18 years, since a transformer failure in 2007.
What action did Chief Minister Sangma take?
Chief Minister Sangma visited the village, acknowledged the neglect, and assured the villagers that their concerns would be addressed. He facilitated the repair of the transformer, restoring electricity within three days.
What is the CM-Connect initiative?
The CM-Connect initiative is a program aimed at enhancing governmental outreach to grassroots communities and addressing their long-standing issues.
Who is Sosthenus Sohtun?
Sosthenus Sohtun is the MLA for the Jirang constituency, who played a key role in bringing the villagers' concerns to the Chief Minister.
What did villagers express upon the restoration of electricity?
The villagers expressed immense relief and gratitude, describing the restoration of electricity as a moment that lifted them out of 'hell' after years of neglect.
