Chandigarh: To tackle the rising power demand during the intense summer heat, the Punjab Government has devised a comprehensive strategy to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply across the state. In a high-level meeting chaired by Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO, officials reviewed the preparedness of the power department and emphasised a four-point action plan.
The Minister assured that there will be no power cuts during the summer season, especially for domestic consumers. “We have sufficient coal stock in our thermal plants and have also done power banking. If required, electricity will be drawn from the central pool,” said ETO. A detailed review of the state’s power situation will be conducted again at the end of April.
Key Focus Areas:
♦Assessment of power conditions i each zone.
♦Recruitment of 2500 linemen to address the manpower shortage
♦Monitoring of loose wires to prevent damage to ripe wheat crops.
♦Strict checks to curb electricity theft, which reportedly caused a loss of over Rs. 2000 crore in 2024-25.
With the early onset of heat in April and rising electricity consumption, officials are also preparing for the upcoming Paddy Season, during which demand could peak at 17000 MW. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for April 27-29 to finalize further steps based on Zone-wise reports.
Despite increased demand, no hike in electricity tariffs has been made this year.