NEW DELHI: Floodwaters began receding in Civil Lines on Friday, but power supply eluded the neighbourhood for the third consecutive day.
A transformer installed on Jamuna Road has been under water, forcing residents to switch to generators and arrange for water supply.
Local people said that senior discom officials, who visited the site, have planned to dismantle the transformer and make other arrangements to restore electricity. A discom official, however, said that "unless we get the go-ahead from" the govt's disaster management team "we cannot restore supply". He added that "shifting the transformer is a time-consuming process."
Residents on Bela Road and Jamuna Road used motors to flush out water in their basements, ground floors and at the entrances. "Due to the flooding, there is back-flow in our sewer lines and drains. This has caused waterlogging on the roads and the ground floors of our houses. It also seems that desilting of drains was not done this year. This is adding to the problem. The overflowing sewer water is mixing with the water stored in underground tanks on the ground floor. This is forcing us to arrange for drinkable water from elsewhere," Sudhir Sangal, a Bela Road resident, said.
Another resident said there is a need for a concrete solution to the flooding. "As this is the second time we are facing the problem in the last three years, it's high time the authorities find a solution. Flooding of roads and houses damages walls, furniture and appliances and restricts movement. Except for the two roads, there is no waterlogging elsewhere in Civil Lines, but what has added to the inconvenience is the disruption of power supply. We really have no idea when the supply will be back. People are losing patience," Nitin Goel, a resident, said.
On Friday, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited issued an alert to consumers that said: "Due to the Yamuna water level rising above the danger mark and flooding nearby low-lying areas, electricity supply is affected. We are working closely with the district administration and local representatives to monitor the situation."
Its spokesperson said that "once the water recedes to a safe level, we will conduct thorough safety checks before restoring supply".
Tata Power DDL also advised residents that in case of heavy rain or flooding, they must "immediately switch off the main power supply. If water enters your home, stay away from metallic gates, fences and electricity poles, and reach out to us on the helpline number for assistance."