Residents check decorative lights for Diwali in Patna on Monday. Picture by Jai Prakash

Residents can expect uninterrupted power supply to light up Diwali and Chhath this year.

Officials of Bihar State Power (Holding) Company Ltd and Patna Electric Supply Undertaking (Pesu) claimed to have completed the arrangements to provide unhindered power supply to Patna during the two festivals.

“We do not need to make special arrangements for Diwali and Chhath as we have already completed most of our maintenance work during Durga Puja. We are also getting adequate electricity to meet the demand. We will ensure uninterrupted power supply on Diwali and Chhath,” Pesu general manager SSP Srivastava told The Telegraph.

For Durga Puja, Pesu replaced dilapidated cables, especially of low-tension lines, and burnt distribution transformers, said Srivastava, adding that instructions have been given to officials to attend fuse-off calls within a minimum time and replace burnt transformers on Diwali.

“If any interruption occurs, the power will be restored within minimum time. We shall be vigilant round-the-clock,” said Srivastava.

Transformers have been kept in reserve for timely replacement.

Asked about the Pesu’s preparations, Bihar State Power (Holding) Company Ltd deputy general manager (public relations) H.R. Pandey said: “We have been purchasing 400-500MW power from the open market for the past few weeks. If needed, we shall purchase more power to meet the demand during Diwali and Chhath.”

The Pesu would also co-operate with Patna Municipal Corporation to illuminate the streets during the days of the festivals. A drive would also be conducted to speed up maintenance work of low-tension lines on all roads leading to the ghats where devotees would perform Chhath rituals.