Thiruvananthapuram, September 8 (Daily Kiran) : Kerala is currently enduring extreme heat and a worsening electricity crisis. Temperatures in the state are running 3 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal, and this trend is expected to continue for at least another day. As a result, residents may face ongoing power outages in several areas.
On Monday, the maximum temperature reached 36.2 degrees Celsius, with the Indian Meteorological Department warning that similar conditions are likely on Tuesday. Relief is anticipated on Wednesday, as rain is predicted in some parts of the state.
The rise in temperature has led to a significant spike in electricity consumption. According to estimates from the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), demand has surged by as much as 800 megawatts.
Due to insufficient power availability from outside the state during peak hours, KSEB implemented one-hour power cuts in various regions on Monday. If demand patterns remain unchanged on Tuesday, the situation could deteriorate further.
KSEB reported difficulties in purchasing additional electricity due to the absence of short-term power contracts and high prices in the real-time electricity market. Although tenders for electricity procurement were issued for September, no companies have come forward to supply power during peak hours, leaving KSEB with limited options to address the sudden increase in demand.
In response to the intense heat, the state disaster management authority has issued precautionary measures, as the risk of heat-related illnesses, exhaustion, and dehydration has risen. Officials have advised the public to avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest hours, stay hydrated, and remain vigilant for symptoms related to excessive heat.
The weather department has issued a heatwave warning from September 7 to 9, indicating that temperatures across the state may remain significantly elevated. The increased use of cooling devices in homes and businesses is putting additional strain on an already pressured electricity supply system.
Leave a Comment