Power Cuts Trouble Farmers, Workers and Traders as Punjab Faces Peak Electricity Demand

Punjab continues to reel under an intense heatwave, with soaring temperatures driving electricity demand to near-record levels across the state. On Monday, June 29, the state's power requirement climbed to 16,940 megawatts, approaching the 17,000 MW mark and placing significant pressure on the power distribution system. The prolonged spell of extreme heat has added to the difficulties faced by paddy farmers, who are already engaged in the transplantation season. At the same time, unannounced power cuts have affected not only the farming community but also labourers, traders and residents across the state. The steady rise in electricity demand has further increased the burden on Powercom officials as they work to manage supply. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has predicted that the current hot weather will continue on June 29 and June 30. Weather experts, however, have indicated that conditions are likely to change from July 1. According to the forecast, between July 1 and July 4, several parts of Punjab are expected to experience winds blowing at speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour. Light rainfall is likely in some areas, while other regions may receive moderate showers, bringing much-needed relief from the prevailing heat. The ongoing power outages have also impacted paddy transplantation activities across the state. Farmers have complained that they are not receiving the stipulated eight hours of electricity supply for agricultural operations. In response, the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha has announced statewide protests outside all Powercom offices on June 30, demanding uninterrupted power supply for the agriculture sector.