Although the government claims to have capacity to supply 8,000MW of power, residents ask why it failed to manage 5 per cent hike in power demand from that of last year.
Picture used for representative purpose only
Power cuts in residential colonies for the last two days, and at a time when the heat wave in Delhi is becoming unbearable, is adding to the woes of the residents. The maximum temperature reached 47 degree Celsius on June 6.
According the Delhi government, Monday’s power demand reached up to 6,361 MW. During a press conference, Saytender Jain, Delhi power minister, said that the government has capacity to supply up to 8,000 MW of power.
However, residents have begun questioning the reasons behind the power cuts. BS Vohra, president of East Delhi RWA Joint Forum, said, “It’s very shocking that the Delhi government failed to manage even a five per cent hike in power demand from that of last year. Last night, three power cuts were reported in my colony and many residents were seen sitting in parks till late in the night.”
Last year in summer, the highest power consumption for a day was recorded at 6,240 MW. CP Verma, another member of the RWA forum, said, “Even if the power demand had crossed 6,500 MW, it would have been within expectations. My simple question is – why are there back-to-back power cuts when the government claims to have enough power in backup.”
Speaking about reports of power cuts last night, Jain said, “The government has instructed all three power distribution companies operating in Delhi to increase the number of call centre attendants and inform people regarding unscheduled power cuts through mobile SMS. Situation will be under control today itself.”
