Power Rationing Looms As TCN Announces Impact Of FCDA Road Project
Power Outage Affects Thousands of Loom Owners
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) recently announced that the construction of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) road project will significantly impact the power supply to Gwagwalada, Kuje, and environs. The project is set to commence on January 23rd, 2023 and will affect two transmission lines, forcing TCN to ration power supply to the affected areas.
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the textile industry, which heavily relies on electricity to power looms. Many loom owners in the affected areas have been left in a state of uncertainty, fearing significant production losses and financial hardship.
FCDA Road Project: A Necessary Evil?
The FCDA road project is a crucial infrastructure development aimed at decongesting traffic and improving accessibility in Abuja. However, the impact on the power supply has raised concerns among businesses and residents.
TCN maintains that the project is essential and must proceed. The company has assured that alternative arrangements have been made to ensure that the power outage is minimized. However, doubts remain about the adequacy of these measures.
Loom Owners Decry Losses and Uncertainty
Loom owners in the affected areas are facing a grim reality. Without reliable electricity, they will be unable to operate their machines and meet production deadlines. Many fear that the power rationing could lead to significant financial losses and even threaten their livelihoods.
Challenges and Concerns
In addition to production losses, loom owners are concerned about the timing of the power rationing. The FCDA road project is expected to take several months, and the uncertainty over the duration of the power outage is causing further anxiety.
Furthermore, alternative power sources, such as generators, are becoming increasingly expensive due to the rising cost of diesel. This has placed an additional financial burden on loom owners who are already struggling to cope with the impact of the power outage.
Call for Support and Mitigation
The loom owners have appealed to the government and relevant stakeholders for support during this challenging time. They are requesting measures to mitigate the impact of the power rationing, including financial assistance and access to alternative power sources.
Conclusion
The power rationing caused by the FCDA road project has thrown the textile sector in Abuja into turmoil. Loom owners are facing significant production losses and financial hardship, threatening their livelihoods. While the project is essential for infrastructure development, the impact on businesses must be carefully considered and mitigated.
The government and relevant stakeholders must work together to provide support and alternative solutions to ensure that the loom owners can weather this storm and continue to contribute to the local economy.