Angry over repeated power cuts at Naihati in North 24 Parganas, residents blocked the Naihati-Habra Road on Wednesday. The roadblock was followed by a huge traffic jam as the police had a tough time controlling the situation.
Local people alleged that load-shedding is common in the area and voltage is also low. Local residents informed the district administration and the local electricity supply offices of the situation but the problem was not solved.
On Wednesday, local residents, including women, came to Naihati-Habra Road to stage a demonstration and later around 300 people blocked the road.
A huge contingent of police reached the spot and requested the protesters to withdraw the blockade. "OC, Naihati, repeatedly requested the protesters to withdraw the blockade but they refused," said an eyewitness.
Tree trunks and drums were kept in the middle of the road to block the way. The officers in charge of electricity supply were gheraod by the residents. Police later rescued the officers.
"The monsoon is yet to come. The daytime temperature is very high. We cannot use the ceiling fan, watch television or even start the induction cooker," alleged a woman.
The residents have also threatened to block the road on Thursday if the problem is not resolved immediately.