Digitalization drive for the transparent Ration distribution system is facing a stumbling block in Kalyanpur sub-division owing to recent Nor’westers. After a brief spell of the Nor’wester on Sunday night, electric poles were uprooted causing widespread disruption in the power supply.
Meanwhile, people are queuing in front of the local Post Office to update Aadahar Cards. As per the order of the Food department, an updated Aadhar card is necessary for the digitalization drive of the Public Distribution System. Since early morning people – males and females – from different parts of the sub-division including the remote hamlets were found waiting under scorching heat in a long line at the Kalyanpur Post Office to update the Aadhar Card – however, the computer-based update system in the Post Office is not functioning owing to lack of power supply – the power supply was snapped after gusty wind blew over Kalyanpur on Sunday night for a brief period. At least five electric poles were uprooted hitting essential services like water supply etc. Services in the Post Office are also affected as the Post Office has no alternative arrangement in place for load shedding.
Waiting in a long queue, people are expressing resentment at the inadequate infrastructure in the Post office – some of the villagers alleged even though there is electricity in the Office, Aadhar Updation works are often delayed due to poor internet connectivity.
“There are only two places in Kalyanpur where we can update our Aadhar cards – one is the Post Office which is plagued with power outages and poor connectivity issues and the other one is Block Office. People from all over the sub-division are waiting in lines since morning. Many people of indigenous communities have come from distant hamlets spending money. However, with no electricity we are helplessly waiting in the queue”, said a woman.
The Power Office of the Kalyanpur is reportedly riddled with a manpower crisis. As a result, restoration of the normal power supply is taking time. Not just the Post Office, several villages under the sub-division are reeling under Nor’wester led power crisis, sources said.