Two power distribution companies of Dhaka, Dhaka Power Distribution Company, DPDC and Dhaka Electric Supply Company, DESCO are in contention over demarcation of boundary. Though Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission has fixed a border, one company is refusing to let go of its authority.
Reportedly, the company is disregarding the order of the power department; meanwhile, power department sources have said that an additional secretary has been given appointment to settle the issue.
It’s found that the east part of Mirpur, with big clients like Neuroscience, Bangladesh Radio and National Eye Institute were given to DESCO but the west side of Mirpur, including Gabtoli, Kalyanpur, Turag Housing and areas around Darus Salam have not been handed over to DESCO.
As per the law in the power division, one company cannot provide power in the area of another company. Though problems still persist.
Reportedly, distribution companies are not paying attention to the directives from the ministry; in some instances, court cases took place with labour unrest created to muddy the waters.
MD of DPDC Bikash Dewan, said: “In some areas, the demarcation line with DESCO was not settled and, currently, a discussion is underway in that regard.”
DPDC has delineated DESCO its area but the same was not done by DESCO, he alleged.
We have left the matter on the ministry and will accept its decision.
Meanwhile, MD of DESCO, Shahid Sarwar, said: “DESCO did not get a full understanding of areas from DPDC.”
The area was handed over in 1994 when DESA was separated from DESCO.
“There is no dispute with DPDC with geographical boundaries; DPDC has been given shares worth Tk. 179 crore.”
DPDC wants areas where big clients are located, he added.
A power department high up says: “An additional secretary has been given responsibility to settle the matter and soon there will be a resolution.”