Thousands of Kajulu Residents Plunged Into Absolute Darkness as PKLC Transformer Explodes Following Heavy Downpour in Kisumu City
KPLC-Transformer behind Disciples of Mercy Vocational Training suffered a massive explosion on Monday evening following a heavy downpour, plunging Wathorego area into absolute darkness throughout the night.
The transformer, which serves more than 100 homes around Wathorego location in Kajulu Ward, is notorious for switching itself on and off with every downpour.
Narrating the predicament of residents in the area, Michael, a resident of Wathorego, told Kisumu City News that “ever since I moved here in 2017, I have always expected a total blackout whenever it rains”, he said.
He added that the transformer (which exploded) is overloaded since it serves more than 100 homes and several shops around the area.
Among the most affected are refrigerator owners. One resident complained that she experiences significant losses every time there is a blackout.
“I keep fast food in my fridge. Sometimes, there can be a blackout for even two days resulting in a massive amount of food rotting in the fridge. Kenya Power should do something about this menace.” she KCN.
. Kenya Power Station is about 3 km from us, and I am wondering why they have not sorted out the issue
Having been plunged into total darkness throughout the night, Wathorego residents want their MCA, Mr Roy Samo, to intervene by confronting Kenya Power and Lighting Company to solve the problem of frequent blackouts in the area.
“We want our mheshimiwa, Hon Roy Samo, who is our MCA, to confront Kenya Power and resolve the issue”, Mr Joseph Otieno, a resident, told KCN.
“Our business premises are not safe, especially at night when there is a blackout. Mheshimiwa, should come to our rescue. It has been years with the same problem remaining unresolved.” Joseph told KCN.
“An additional transformer is required to help curb this menace. Kenya Power Station is about 3 km from us, and I am wondering why they have not sorted out the issue yet they are aware of it”, another angry resident lamented.
Of late, Kenya power has been at the centre of criticism for high power tariffs while at the same time failing to contain perennial power blackouts in Kisumu city.
The power company has been accused of wide-spread corruption, over-charging customers, poor services and dilapidated infrastructure.
These shortcomings have turned Kisumu city into the headquarters of power blackouts in Kenya. The company needs to put its act together because Kisumu residents are getting tired of persistent power blackouts every time there is a downpour.
By Favored Williams
