Maharashtra is bracing for possible power disruptions as seven employee unions of MahaVitaran have announced a three-day statewide strike from October 9 to 11, protesting against the alleged privatization and restructuring of the state-run electricity distribution company. The protest has triggered concerns about interruptions in electricity supply to homes, industries, and essential services.
Protest Over Privatization Plans
The striking unions have accused the government of moving towards privatizing 329 substations, a claim that MahaVitaran’s management has strongly denied. Officials clarified that control over these facilities remains with the company, dismissing the allegations as “baseless.”
Earlier, on October 6, senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary Abha Shukla and MahaVitaran Managing Director Lokesh Chandra met with union representatives to clarify that no proposal for privatization was under consideration. However, the unions remained unconvinced and decided to proceed with the strike.
Emergency Measures in Place
To minimize the impact of the agitation, MahaVitaran has cancelled all staff leave and directed employees to report for duty. Control rooms have been activated at both headquarters and regional levels to monitor the electricity supply every hour. The company has also mobilized non-striking employees, contract workers, and external resources to ensure continuity of services during the protest.
Possible Impact on Consumers
Officials warned that the strike could disrupt electricity supply to households, farms, industries, hospitals, and public services. Sectors dependent on uninterrupted power—such as water supply, cold storage, and transport—may also face temporary difficulties.
Despite this, the company assured that essential services would continue to receive electricity through backfeed arrangements to prevent major outages.
Strike Declared Illegal Under MESMA
Given that power supply is categorized as an essential service, the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act (MESMA) has been invoked, effectively making the strike illegal. Employees participating in the agitation face potential disciplinary action, while contract workers could risk termination of services.
In an effort to maintain communication with staff, MahaVitaran management has pledged to hold monthly meetings every fourth Monday to address employee grievances and strengthen coordination.
Public Advisory
MahaVitaran has appealed to consumers to stay calm, avoid rumors, and cooperate during the strike period. The company assured that its teams are working round-the-clock to manage the situation efficiently.
For complaints or power-related issues, consumers can reach out to MahaVitaran’s 24-hour helplines:
📞 1912
📞 1800-212-3435
📞 1800-233-3435
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