Exasperated by frequent blackouts, Karaikal residents demand new substation

Frequent and prolonged blackouts in several villages under Thirunallar and Nedungadu commune in Karaikal have led to growing demands for the replacement or upgrade of the decades-old Surakudi power substation.

The Surakudi substation, located near Thirunallar, is 40 years old. Sources said the transformer and other equipment at the facility have long outlived their purpose and are prone to frequent failures, particularly during high winds or rainfall.

“Whenever there’s wind or rain, the power goes off for several hours. This is a recurring problem affecting many villages, including Surakudi, Karukkanakudi, Sellur, Ambagarathur, Nedungadu, Viluthiyur, and Athipadugai,” said Pon Panneerselvam, district secretary of the Dravidar Kazhagam. “Tourists visiting Thirunallar and local businesses are also severely affected,” he said.

Officials reportedly travel from Puducherry to carry out repairs whenever faults arise at the Surakudi substation, often leading to unannounced power outages lasting several hours. Puducherry government announced several substation across the district in its budget, but not for Karaikal. “In contrast, the Surakudi substation in Karaikal, which urgently requires a complete overhaul or replacement, has not received funding,” said Mr. Panneerselvam.

When The Hindu contacted an official from the Electricity Department, he confirmed that a proposal for the substation’s upgrade had been submitted to the government some time ago and approval was awaited.