Frequent Power Cuts Continue to Trouble Handewadi Residents
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Handewadi, 16th June 2026: Recurrent power outages in Handewadi have become a major concern for residents, with thousands of families reporting repeated disruptions to their daily lives. The interruptions, which have persisted for several weeks, continue to affect households across several residential societies in the rapidly growing suburb.
Nearly 6,000 flats in 18 housing societies have been impacted by the frequent outages. Residents say electricity supply is interrupted multiple times a day, often without warning, causing inconvenience to working professionals, school-going children and senior citizens.
The issue had triggered protests by residents in May, who demanded immediate intervention and long-term measures to address the inadequate power infrastructure in the locality.
According to officials of the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (MSEDCL), underground power cables in the area have been repeatedly damaged during ongoing infrastructure work, leading to interruptions in supply. The affected feeders receive electricity through the Phursungi substation, and officials have warned that the problem could worsen during the monsoon if protective measures are not completed in time.
Following the protests, MSEDCL presented a comprehensive plan aimed at strengthening the power network in its urban division. As part of the proposal, the utility has undertaken work to provide a new power supply line from the high-voltage station at Punyadham. It also plans to establish a back-feed facility for the entire Undri and Autadewadi-Handewadi belt, which would help maintain electricity supply during emergencies and reduce the duration of outages. The work on these projects is currently underway.
Residents, however, say they continue to bear the brunt of the ongoing disruptions.
Ashay Acharekar, a resident of Fortune Siddhipriya in Handewadi, said the repeated outages have become a serious inconvenience. “Electricity goes off frequently, creating a lot of difficulties for residents. Every two to three hours, we experience power cuts, making it difficult to carry out routine activities,” he said.
Another resident, Pranay Vilas Patil, pointed out that the timing of the outages adds to the frustration. “The morning hours are crucial, as children are preparing for school and many people are getting ready to leave for work. Regular power cuts during this period disrupt our entire schedule,” he said.
Residents also noted that a portion of Handewadi falls under MSEDCL’s urban division, while the remaining area is covered by the rural division, often leading to confusion over jurisdiction and complaint redressal.
While the proposed infrastructure upgrades have offered some hope, residents have urged authorities to expedite the work and provide immediate relief from the persistent power cuts that continue to disrupt everyday life.
