India is facing a
deepening power crisis. The nation’s capital, Delhi, is on the brink of seeing
massive power cuts that have the potential to impact critical services. The
Delhi government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has warned of a possible
setback in providing uninterrupted electricity to establishments such as the Metro
network and hospitals.

The power crisis
in Delhi is due to a shortage of power supply from Unchahar and Dadri-II power
stations, according to a government statement, which stated that the disruption
may occur within 24 hours. Delhi Power Minister Satyendra Jain has written to
the Centre to ensure adequate availability of coal in the capital.

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A sweltering early
summer has caused a flurry of blackouts across the country. Data on April 21
showed that more that over 100 powerplants in India have fallen below the 25% of
the required stock, which is identified as the critical mark.

Why is there
a coal crisis?

The biggest reason
for the coal crisis is the increased power demand. Demand for coal has increased
to 132 BU per month from 124.2 BU per month in 2021 and 106.6 BU per month in
2019. With 70% of India’s power demand being met by thermal powerplants, mostly
powered by coal, coal supply has emerged as a major challenge.

Also Read | India’s March electricity shortage worst since October 2021 coal crisis

India faced a coal
shortage in October 2021 as well. At the time, shipping delays led to a decline
in stocks dropping to just four days of supply. This was caused by a decline in
coal production in coal mining areas of Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi and
Tamil Nadu.

What’s the
Centre doing?

The Indian Union
government has let states use its captive coal reserves up to 25% to meet
growing domestic demand. The Centre is also considering increasing the stock of
imported coal, however, that has been made difficult by rising coal costs.