CUC: 92 percent of Saipan energized

The Commonwealth Utilities Corp. reported that power and water supply on Saipan is almost back to normal, but many residents remain in the dark and are waiting for water to come out of their faucet.

A status report from the CUC power division showed that power has been restored in 92 percent of the island as of yesterday morning. At least 172 houses, however, still had no power.

Meanwhile, 34 wells, booster pumps, and water facilities remained inoperable as of Wednesday afternoon, based on the latest available data from the CUC water division. A total of 17 wells–eight of which are located in Kagman—have not been energized due to lack of power. Nine of the water facilities were reported inactive, while the other wells require repair and maintenance.

“We’re close to completing the restoration work. We expect that everything will be done by Saturday on Saipan and Tinian,” CUC executive director Lorraine Babauta said. “The men from Guam Power Authority are scheduled to arrive tonight [Thursday evening]. They will help expedite the power restoration work on Rota.”

CUC power division manager Diego Babauta reported that 32 transformers have blown out and 36 power poles fell during the typhoon. Fifteen of the transformers and 14 of the power poles were located in areas getting power supply from Kiya 1, which covers As Terlaje, Fina Sisu, Dandan, Airport Road, San Vicente, Kileleman Road, As Gonno, and portions of Koblerville and Papago.

A total of 118 power lines also went down during the typhoon, and 35 of them were located in the Kiya 1 areas.

Unlike other villages where power is now at least 90 percent restored, about 15 percent of the Kiya 1 areas remain without electricity.

CUC has prepared a registration form for customers who still do not have power. Copies of the form are available at the CUC office on the 3rd floor of the Dandan Commercial Center, or at the CUC customer service office in Garapan.

Customers may also call CUC at 233-7028 or 29 during normal business hours for information regarding the status of power restoration efforts in their area.

The utility corporation’s 24-hour emergency hotlines—with telephone numbers 235-0282 and 235-2282—should be reserved for reports of emergency cases, CUC said.