ESSENTIAL SERVICES Connections like water, Electricity, telephone are essential services. Neighbours, landlords stall and object to such facility, as it has to cross their boundaries or properties Mostly it is due to jealousy,. envy and ego problems, Technically such objections cannot be overruled by the designated department unless they have no objection certificate, As a result many are denied these facilities, Those enjoying the benefits, forget that such facilities and connecting lines pass through many properties of owners. Had they to adopt the dog in the manger attitude, perhaps, we would be waiting in vain. Mobile phones have solved the problem of wires passing over other properties. Water and electricity connections are still being hindered. It does not make sense and does not disturb anything as water pipe lines are dug at least a meter below the ground and in some places fixed lines phones are also underground. Underground cabling of electricity may be reality soon There must be a legislation to take care of these difficulties,. otherwise those that object must be denied similar facilities with immediate effect The owners can suggest an alternative route through their properties, if it causes encumbrance, These problems are acute specially in villages No one must deny such facilities to their neighbors adamantly on flimsy grounds Those whose houses are abutting the roads do not think of others and hence only legislation can remove this lacuna The gestation period of underground cabling in cities is not cost effective .Immediately and first the problems of high and low voltage, fluctuations, erratic electric supply, power cuts and high tariffs for domestic consumers can be attended .The loss of electric appliances is a cause of anxiety for helpless consumers. Line separators for open wires will remedy short circuits. The overhanging branches must be trimmed much before the onset of monsoons. On NH17 the land acquisitions was way back in 1988 and yet the overhanging branches of trees are crying for actions Nelson Lopes Chinchinim
