Use of ACs to be banned in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW - In view of the power crisis in Uttar Pradesh, use of air conditioners in houses, businesses and government offices has been banned in the state between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., an official said Saturday.

The order is likely to come into effect Sunday and will remain in force till July 15.

The order can be revoked if the power situation improves due to favourable weather conditions, an official with the Uttar Pradesh Power Corp Ltd (UPPCL) told IANS.

Those not complying with the order would face action.

“Flouting of the order would result in snapping of AC and glow-sign connection and a penalty that may be extended to Rs.500 per offence,” the official added.

In Uttar Pradesh, peak hour demand for supply has climbed to around 9,000 MW with the availability pegged at around 6,500 MW, another official said.

To counter the power crisis, UPPCL has already sought 300 MW from Himachal Pradesh at a cost of Rs.8 per unit.