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Power crisis effect: less work for Punjab babus

Special Correspondent

CHANDIGARH: In view of the acute power shortage in Punjab caused by a delay in the arrival of the monsoon, the State Cabinet on Saturday decided to change the timings of the government offices, boards and corporations in the State from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to 7-30 a.m. to 1-30 p.m. from this Monday onward until further orders.

According to an official release, the changed timings would not be applicable to the offices of the State Government that are located in the Union Territory of Chandigarh. The Government has already imposed a ban on use of air-conditioners in government offices, boards and corporations.

Tough measures

Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal has appealed to the people to bear with the tough measures taken by the Government in the wake of the power crisis because of the delayed monsoon and high demand for power especially in the farm sector due to transplantation of paddy.

In a statement, Mr. Badal said the issue of power crisis was not merely related to Punjab but had now become a national crisis. He said it was the bounden duty of everyone to save electricity and safeguard the economic interests of all sections of society.

Principal Secretary (Irrigation and Power) Suresh Kumar made a presentation at the meeting of Council of Ministers to apprise them of the current power and water scenario. He said the demand for power had witnessed a steep increase of 8170 MW till date as compared to 6083 MW during the corresponding period of last year.

The Chief Minister has directed the Punjab State Electricity Board and the Power Department to ensure adequate power availability without compromising on the nation’s food security.

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