FOR years I have been reading countless demoralising reports in newspapers about the load-shedding problems and frustrations we face.
Two weeks ago I read a recommendation by Sir Frank Peters that made sense to my office colleagues and me and brought hope into our lives. When implemented it could eliminate many of the related aggravations by the mere touch of an on-off-button.
Knowing how slow authorities are to react, I estimated at the time it would take them 48-hours to put his inspiring suggestion into practice and great relief would fall on the nation ever after — but nothing has changed: frustrations just grow bigger. When will this madness end?
Basically, Sir Frank recommended switching on and off the electricity at set times, such as on the hour… on for an hour (or more), off for an hour (or more), but the change always takes place at the same time. As he pointed out it is not the lack of electricity itself that causes many frustration, anger and grief, but the uncertainty of when the power will be cut and restored as if the authorities are playing a sick game of ‘musical chairs’ with the populace.
If the authorities concerned are so uncaring towards the sufferings of the people, they should be sacked.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in her election speech promised ample power supply to the nation, but has yet to deliver. In one phone call to the authorities, however, she can at least remove much of our sufferings. Please make that call, madam prime minister.
Shahim Tanveer
Barisal