The BSES has been directed by the CM to “increase their staff to take care of breakdowns, ensure proper coordination with the Department of Power and display information about breakdown, duration of powercut and expected time of bringing normalcy by inserting scrolls on local television channels and cable network.”

Explaining the unduly long power cuts, the CM said local faults are worsening the problem. “I have told the BSES that all local faults have to be addressed immediately.”

As reported by Newsline on Sunday, the Union Power Ministry has allocated 150 MW from the Central unallocated quota to Delhi. “Besides, Delhi is also being allowed to overdraw a certain amount of power from the Northern Grid as well,” Dikshit added. She said her office will bring out two notices on Monday. “We will provide three phone numbers, which will be answered by members from my personal staff,” she said. “Consumers can call with power-related complaints. The other will be an appeal to conserve power.”

The crisis

“We have not had this sort of crisis in the last five years. The extraordinary heat has led to the current shortage. People in South and East Delhi, areas supplied by BSES, are suffering the most.”

Measures to take

“I have told BSES to purchase power whatever the price. I have convened a meeting on Tuesday with the discoms and legislators to review the situation again.”

Sheila Dikshit, Delhi Chief Minister

The crisis

“Due to the extremely high temperatures and no rainfall, the 700 MW that we had contracted for the summer is not reaching Delhi. This has led to the current situation.”

... contd.