By D.W.G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
The Human Cost of Power Cuts
Power supply is not just a convenience but a matter of life and death for Tetiana's son, who relies on electricity powered equipment to breathe, eat, and receive medication. The constant power outages in Ukraine, caused by relentless Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, have made their lives exceedingly difficult. Tetiana, living in the southern port city of Odesa, finds it challenging to ensure a continuous supply of electricity. She uses a petrol generator that needs frequent refueling and must be stopped every six hours to cool down. These power cuts also disrupt mobile phone coverage, complicating emergency calls for her son, who experiences life threatening convulsions. Recent blackouts in her neighborhood have lasted up to 12 hours a day, making it a daily struggle to keep her son alive.
Across Ukraine, the absence of power affects millions, leading to no running water, air conditioning, lifts, or access to life saving equipment. The national energy company Ukrenergo reports that over the past three months, Ukraine has lost more than a third of its generating capacity due to Russian strikes. This shortfall has forced Ukrenergo to implement widespread power cuts, pushing Ukrainians to rely increasingly on fuel powered generators and power banks. In Kyiv, residents of tall buildings face additional challenges, such as no running water on upper floors and non operational lifts, which confine people to their apartments. The lack of air conditioning makes their homes sweltering in summer, and the inability to access underground bomb shelters leaves them more vulnerable to air strikes.
Coping Mechanisms Amid Crisis
In response to the prolonged power cuts, Ukrainians have developed various coping mechanisms. For instance, in Zaporizhzhia, dentist Volodymyr Stefaniv has had to reschedule appointments and even conduct surgeries during outages using a head torch. This skill, honed while treating soldiers on the front line, allows him to perform urgent procedures without electricity. His practice still offers free or discounted services to Ukrainian army members, demonstrating resilience and adaptability amid adversity.
Despite the widespread frustration directed at Ukrenergo for the frequent and prolonged power cuts, spokesperson Maria Tsaturian emphasizes that the company has no other choice. The energy sector is a primary target for Russian attacks, aiming to cripple Ukraine's economy and way of life. Tsaturian underscores that this is the price Ukrainians pay for their freedom, as the destruction of the power grid is a strategic move by the enemy to undermine their civilization.
These stories from across Ukraine highlight the human and societal impact of the ongoing conflict, showcasing the resilience and resourcefulness of the Ukrainian people as they navigate life amid constant threats and disruptions.
