Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my profound disappointment and frustration with Jamaica Public Service (JPS) regarding the appallingly slow restoration of electricity to consumers in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. It has been three gruelling weeks since the hurricane passed, and countless Jamaicans are still languishing in darkness, left to fend for themselves without power.

The failure of JPS to restore electricity to its customers is nothing short of a scandal. Despite its repeated assurances, entire communities remain neglected and forgotten. While main roads and urban centres have seen some progress, the plight ofrural areas has been utterly disregarded. Fixing the main roads’ electricity is not enough! Communities matter too! The rural areas, where many of our most vulnerable citizens reside, are suffering the most, and JPS’s apparent indifference to their plight isdisgraceful.

The speed at which JPS is working is painfully inadequate. We were well aware that a hurricane was headed for Jamaica, and JPS had ample time to prepare and make arrangements to address any disturbances and damage the hurricane might cause. Instead, it has shown a shocking lack of foresight and preparedness. Its sluggish response is an insult to every Jamaican who relies on its services.

JPS should be heavily criticised, not commended, for its work. Their lackadaisical attitude towards restoring electricity, particularly in rural areas, is unacceptable. Is it that rural citizens don’t deserve electricity, JPS? This glaring disparity in service highlights a disturbing disregard for a significant portion of our population.

JPS has failed the citizens of Jamaica, especially those in rural areas. The Jamaican Government must urgently seek alternative energy providers. The current state of affairs, in which citizens feel compelled to block roads to drag JPS’s attention to their plight is totally unacceptable. This situation cannot continue.

Ethan Blake

Ethanblake1876@gmail.com