ROOPNAGAR, May 3: The much publicised free power scheme announced by the SAD-BJP government in Punjab has in fact proved a costly affair for the marginal farmers in the area. Though, the SAD election manifesto had promised to provide free power to the farmers in the state, there are some pre-conditions for those belonging to the Kandi belt to avail the service.For instance, each farmer has to deposit a "one time fee" of Rs 5,000 against per horse power machine to fetch the underground water. But to have a minimum of 10 horse power machine is the pre-condition. This, therefore takes the local cost up to Rs 50,000 causing much inconvenience to the farmers with small land holdings.The only way out being offered by the Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) is to apply under the general category scheme, which might take a minimum of five years for the farmer to actually receive a power connection. This, however costs only Rs 2,000 per horse power.So far the local PSEB sub-divisional office has received only one application from village Alipur seeking power connection against the lump sum of Rs 50,000. The board officials attribute it to the poor financial status of the farmers in the area.Board executive engineer J.N. Sachdeva told ENS that owing to water scarcity in the area, it was essential to have a machine with 10 horse power capacity. "Otherwise it is difficult to lift underground water," he added. Elsewhere in the plate, he said, there is no such precondition for farmers.Another board official admitted that it takes years to get a power connection under the general category scheme.Helpless farmers are therefore left with no other option, but to wait for their turn," said Amar Singh of village Chakarwan, who has also applied for a power connection.Harpal Singh, another farmer of village Thali Khurd explained, "In the absence of motors we are forced to use diesel engines to lift the water." In all, there are about 300 houses under the sub-division to have power connections for the agriculture purpose. Only those applying for fresh motor connections are critical of the move.Piara Singh of village Makauri Kalan said, "It has benefited a person like me, who had received the connection much earlier. But for others it is a costly affair."The villagers say: Rs 50,000 fee means an interest of Rs 500 per month, whereas they had to pay Rs 250 before the scheme was announced. The previous option was better, they add.While, the District Congress Committee general secretary Jagjit Singh Jagga described the move as `farce'. Sachdeva asked how can the farmers forget that the remaining motor installations charges of Rs 1,50,000 are being borne by the PSEB. Jagga suggested that instead of offering free power, the state should actually ensure 24-hour power supply at subsidised rates.
