Piyush Goyal slams claims of a Blackout on April 5, says 'Adequate arrangements in place'

Union Minister of Commerce and Railways Piyush Goyal slammed all apprehensions of a blackout on April 5 due to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal of switching off all lights and lighting diyas. Taking to Twitter, Goyal stated that it is pertinent to note that the Indian electricity grid is robust & stable. "Adequate arrangements & protocols are in place for PM Narendra Modi's appeal for switching off lights on 5th April at 9:00 PM for 9 minutes," he added. 

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The Union Minister also posted a release by the Ministry of Power which refuted all claims. The Ministry of Power in the release has stated that apprehensions of grid failure and voltage fluctuation are misplaced, adding, "No call to switch off street lights or appliances at homes. Only lights should be switched off. The lights in hospitals and other essential services will remain on. Local bodies have been advised to keep street lights on for public safety."

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Earlier on Friday, Maharashtra Energy Minister had stated that switching off all lights at a particular moment might lead to a potential blackout as it would affect the demand and supply at the very instance. He stated that it might even take up to 12-16 hours to restore the services as the demand has already decreased from 23,000 megawatts to 13,000 megawatts since factory units are not operating.

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PM's appeal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to the nation on Friday asked the citizens for 9 minutes for their time on Sunday, April 5 and requested them to light a candle, diya, torch or mobile flashlight to mark India's fight against Coronavirus.

PM Modi in his third COVID-19 speech said, "On Sunday, April 5, we must challenge Coronavirus & introduce it to the power of light; 1.3 billion people must show their united power, at 9 pm for 9 minutes, by turning off all lights at home, standing at balconies, & lighting diyas, candles, flashlights." In his appeal, PM Modi reiterated people to maintain social distancing and keep off from the streets.

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