North lakhimpur: The North Lakhimpur division of the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) has come under criticism from residents over alleged indiscriminate tree cutting during power-line maintenance and frequent disruptions in electricity supply. Residents alleged that APDCL personnel often cut substantial portions of trees instead of selectively removing branches that pose a threat to power lines. The issue came into focus on Tuesday morning when two trees, identified as laburnum and cassia, were reportedly felled near the District Commissioner’s office. The trees had reportedly been planted by a local nature enthusiast within the ASCARD Bank compound. The tree-cutting incident reportedly took place while North Lakhimpur town was already facing a prolonged power outage since Monday night, prompting residents to question the timing and manner of the maintenance work.
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Locals also raised concerns over alleged inadequate coordination between APDCL, the Forest Department and civic authorities before trees are cut for power-line maintenance. They demanded greater accountability and adherence to established procedures. Meanwhile, frequent and prolonged power disruptions have emerged as another major concern among consumers in North Lakhimpur. Residents alleged that power supply is particularly vulnerable during rain and strong winds, while both scheduled and unscheduled outages reportedly affect households and essential services. Consumers have also objected to repair-related shutdowns being scheduled on Sundays and public holidays, when electricity demand from households is generally higher.
Residents have urged APDCL to improve the reliability of the power distribution network, provide adequate advance notice for planned outages and adopt scientific, selective vegetation management methods to protect trees while ensuring the safety of power lines. The concerns have renewed calls for better coordination among the agencies responsible for electricity infrastructure, tree protection and civic administration in North Lakhimpur.
