NIPSCO said restoration efforts are being slowed by unique challenges.
"These aren't simple repairs. These are lines that ordinarily take us, and systems that ordinarily take weeks or months that we are trying to accomplish in days or weeks," NiSource Group Utilities President Melody Birmingham said.
Birmingham said crews are working around the clock. The company has also brought in assistance from out of state.
Utility trucks from Jacksonville, Florida were spotted in Munster.
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Damage there and in neighboring Highland remains extensive. Roads are still lined with debris more than a week after the deadly storm. The estimated restoration timeline has been pushed from Wednesday to next Tuesday.
Residents in the affected neighborhoods continue to seek temporary solutions. One man posted a sign asking utility workers to stop at his house next.
Many residents have gone to a Home Depot in Hammond to purchase generators. One woman said she spent $900 on a generator and has since spent hundreds more on fuel.
"We're all exhausted," Barb Light said. "My husband still has to go to work, and I'm just thankful we have a generator right now. Because if we didn't have that, it would be super hot in our house because we went out and bought fans and a portable air conditioner."
Light said she wants better communication from NIPSCO. A company representative said she hears the criticism and called the concern valid.
Gary Mayor Eddie Melton said former NBA player Glenn Robinson donated $100,000 to help those affected.