Industry Hit by Power Shortage, Production Affected; Residents Also Struggle with Prolonged Power Cuts
Mohali: The BJP has targeted the Punjab government over what it described as irregular power supply in Mohali. BJP District President Sanjeev Vashisht visited the 220 KV power grid located in Industrial Area Phase-7 and raised questions over the city’s power supply system.
Vashisht claimed that before 2022, Mohali city received 24-hour electricity supply throughout the year, whereas the supply has now been reduced to around 12 hours a day. He further claimed that even this supply is not continuous and is being provided intermittently through repeated power cuts.
According to Vashisht, the irregular power supply is having its biggest impact on Mohali’s industrial sector. Frequent power cuts are affecting production, while several industrialists are reportedly considering shutting down their units or shifting their businesses to other states.
He claimed that some businessmen are looking towards Haryana and Uttar Pradesh in search of more reliable power supply. The BJP leader warned that if the situation does not improve, it could adversely affect industrial activity and employment in the region.
Residential Areas Also Affected
Vashisht said the power crisis is no longer limited to industrial areas. Residents in several parts of Mohali are also facing difficulties due to prolonged power cuts. During periods of intense heat, extended outages are forcing people to spend sleepless nights, he claimed.
He said that earlier, power shortages were mainly witnessed during the summer season, but long-duration outages are now being reported even during the monsoon season, adding to the problems faced by residents.
Power Shortage Affecting Industrial Production
The BJP District President said electricity is one of the most essential basic requirements for running any industry. Frequent interruptions make it difficult to operate machinery and maintain regular production.
He claimed that several industrialists in Mohali are increasingly concerned about the existing power situation. While some units are reaching a point where they may have to shut down, others are considering moving their operations outside Punjab.
Vashisht said that continued industrial migration could have a negative impact on investment, employment and the local economy.
Demand to Improve Power Supply Instead of Focusing on Publicity
Vashisht alleged that instead of strengthening the state’s power infrastructure, the Punjab government is paying greater attention to publicity and poster campaigns. He urged the government to reduce unnecessary expenditure and focus on improving basic public services.
He demanded that regular and adequate electricity supply be ensured across Mohali and Punjab. He said uninterrupted power is essential for the smooth functioning of industries, while residents in residential areas also need a reliable electricity supply, particularly during periods of extreme heat.
