Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) has decided to approach the execution of the on-going underground electricity cable network (UECN) with a new strategy. APEPDCL executive director, B Ramesh Prasad said that as per the new strategy , the contract agencies will execute the UECN work in small stretches instead of digging up large stretches of the road.The step has been taken to prevent traffic congestion and piling up of debris on public roads, said APEPDCL officials.Under the new system, contract agencies will have to select one trench with a maximum limit of 500meters in length, mobilise all workforce to the centre of the trench, complete all work like digging of lines, positioning of cables and returning the area to its original condition, making it free for movement of vehicles within 30 days, Prasad explained.APEPDCL took the decision after receiving a series of complaints from the public from areas like Peda Waltair, China Waltair, Pandurangapuram, RK beach, Andhra University, VIP Road, Adarsh Nagar, Ushodaya Junction, Lawson’s Bay Colony and MVP Colony.Official sources said that the discom receives 10 to 15 complaints daily regarding traffic problems caused by the underground works in progress.A new toll free number will also be announced to receive complaints from the public once the new model is launched. Currently, works are going on for a length of around 69.32 kms. The total length of the trench is 439.39kms. The discom will also conduct weekly meetings with the contract agencies of the four packages at Waltair Club.

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