PM Modi's '9 Pm- 9 Mins' appeal: Power Ministry refutes claims of blackout due on April 5

Soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's '9 pm, 9 minutes' appeal, Maharashtra Energy Minister Nitin Raut on Friday had stated that switching off lights can lead to a grid failure and affect emergency services. Refuting his claims, Ministry of Power on Saturday stated that apprehensions of grid failure and volt fluctuation are misplaced. 

" call to switch off street lights or appliances at homes. Only lights should be switched off. lights in hospitals and or essential services will remain on. Local bodies have been advised to keep street lights on for public safety," ANI quoted Power Ministry. 

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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 demand and supply at very instance. He stated that it might even take up to 12-16 hours to restore services as demand has already decreased from 23,000 megawatts to 13,000 megawatts since factory units are t operating.

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PM's appeal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to nation on Friday asked citizens for 9 minutes for ir time on Sunday, April 5 and requested m 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 power of light; 1.3 billion people must show ir 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 streets.

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