Patna University sans power for three weeks

PATNA: In its centenary year, Patna University (PU) is literally groping in the dark as its power supply stands disconnected for the last three weeks owing to non-payment of electricity dues to the tune of Rs6 crore.
The university, which was supposed to have been illuminated on the historic occasion of completing 100 glorious years of existence, does not have necessary funds to clear its power dues.Consequently, the power distribution company authorities have been compelled to disconnect the power supply, pushing the university to darkness.
PU’s acting vice-chancellor Sudhir Kumar Srivastava, however, pointed out that a move has been made to organize a function on April 20 to mark the commencement of centenary celebrations. Some eminent academics and at least two former VCs of PU will address the meeting.
Referring to the recent power cut on the campus, the VC said on its own PU is not in a position to clear the huge power dues. PU has written letters to the state education department to release necessary funds for making the payment. The power supply company authorities have also been approached for restoration of power supply in the larger interest of students, especially during the period of examinations.
PU registrar G K Palei said the university has made provisions for Rs19 crore in its annual budget for 2017-18 for clearing all its outstanding liabilities, including payment of electricity dues and municipal taxes. He pointed out that the university was facing difficulties in meeting its financial liabilities due to non-receipt of its annual statutory grants from the state government to the tune of Rs19.32 crore for the last 12 years. The authorities have, however, assured the university that power supply would be restored soon, he added.