Baramulla: In a shocking incident that has left the residents of Juhama BDO Colony Baramulla reeling, burglars managed to steal the copper core coils from a 250 KV power transformer, making off with valuables worth an estimated ₹8 lakh.
This is the first time such a brazen theft has occurred in the area, with the thieves cutting both LT and ST power lines to execute their plan.
The incident, which took place under the cover of night, involved the burglars carefully uninstalling the transformer, extracting the valuable copper core coils from within, and leaving the body of the transformer on the spot. The residents woke up to find their power supply cut off and the gutted transformer abandoned, leading to widespread outrage and concern.
Local authorities have been swift to respond, with the police launching an investigation into the theft. The residents are demanding immediate action to catch the culprits and bring them to justice. The Power Development Department (PDD) has been urged to expedite the restoration of power, especially given the current harsh weather conditions.
“We are in complete shock. This has never happened before,” said local resident Ghulam Mohammad Sofi. “We demand that the police and other agencies take swift action to catch these criminals. The Power Development Department must also restore our power supply immediately,” he added.
As the investigation continues, the locals remain on edge, hoping for a quick resolution and restoration of power supply. Abdul Qayoom, PDD inspector for the area, said, “This is indeed a shocking and bizarre burglary incident, which I have witnessed for the first time during my 40 years of service. We have lodged an FIR at Police Post Delina, and the investigation is ongoing.”
Late in the afternoon, the Power Development Department installed a new transformer. Surprisingly, the transformer failed to bear the load and was damaged, locals reported.
They also mentioned that the drinking water supply has been affected due to the lack of power, and the area remains in complete darkness, causing significant hardships for the residents.
