New Delhi: The Delhi government said Thursday that the growing power crisis amid coal shortage could lead to power cuts in important establishments in the capital such as Metro trains and hospitals.
Power Minister Satyendar Jain wrote to the Centre Thursday, requesting it to ensure adequate coal availability to power plants that supply electricity to the national capital. He also held a meeting with department officials to assess the situation.
“Due to disruption of power supply from Dadri-II and Unchahar power stations, there may be a problem in 24-hours power supply to many essential institutions, including Delhi Metro and Delhi government hospitals,” a government statement read.
Presently, 25-30 per cent of the electricity demand in Delhi is being met through these power stations, and they face a shortage of coal, Jain said.
“These power stations play an important role in preventing blackouts in some parts of Delhi and are also essential to ensure the continuous supply of electricity to Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, hospitals and people in the upcoming summer season,” the minister said.
Besides measures to increase coal supplies to power plants, the Union government has asked states to step up its imports for the next three years to build up inventories.
Thermal plants across the country are grappling with coal shortage, indicating a looming power crisis in the country, All India Power Engineers Federation said.
