One of Punjab's most significant rehabilitation centers, accommodating over 450 residents, has been enduring a prolonged period of darkness, lasting nearly two months since the disconnection of its power supply on January 10. This dire situation has tragically led to the demise of 14 inmates, comprising eight men and six women, with a significant number being elderly individuals, succumbing to the harsh cold conditions prevalent over the past two months.
The power disruption at 'Prabh Asra ensued following the NGO's inability to settle an outstanding bill amounting to approximately Rs 93 lakh. Despite the organization's efforts to resolve the matter, including the installation of solar panels by the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), the financial burden remains insurmountable.
The NGO's management has tirelessly pursued solutions, with the founder, Shamsher Singh, personally addressing the issue with former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channy. However, promises of assistance have yet to materialize, leaving the NGO grappling with the dire consequences.
Singh lamented the lack of support from the state government, highlighting the challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted financial stability due to a surge in patient admissions and dwindling donations during the lockdown.
Efforts to seek redressal were also made during the 2022 Punjab assembly elections, with engagements with AAP leaders Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal. Despite subsequent appeals to authorities and reminders to the PSPCL, no resolution has been forthcoming.
The power outage has inflicted severe consequences, particularly during the winter season, affecting essential facilities such as medical equipment, kitchen appliances, and heating systems. With daily expenditures amounting to Rs 14,000 on diesel generators, the NGO's capacity to provide social security to its residents, encompassing vulnerable demographics such as senior citizens, infants, and the infirm, has been severely compromised.
The NGO plays a vital role in providing support to various marginalized groups, including pregnant rape victims, destitute women, and mentally challenged individuals, often receiving referrals from local authorities. However, the current predicament has underscored a notable lack of response from relevant stakeholders.
Acknowledging the invaluable service rendered by Prabh Asra, a senior AAP leader affirmed the organization's commendable efforts and proposed exploring avenues for settling outstanding bills through PSPCL's one-time settlement scheme.
Despite facing immense challenges, Prabh Asra remains steadfast in its mission, having facilitated the reunification of numerous individuals with their families, exemplifying its unwavering commitment to humanitarian service.
