Shortage of coal: Rajasthan taking steps to resolve power crisis

Demand for both commercial and domestic electricity increases by an average of 7 crore units

Following a power crisis and closure of some thermal units, steps have been initiated in Rajasthan to resolve the issue of shortage of coal. The State government has made arrangements for the supply of eight coal rakes everyday to the Kota and Suratgarh super thermal power plants. The demand for both commercial and domestic electricity has increased by an average of 7 crore units because of a deficient monsoon and a comparatively higher temperature in the State. Against the usual power consumption recorded at about 20 crore units a day during August every year, the demand has gone up to 31 core units a day this year. The demand for electricity was recorded at 14,690 MW on August 19, which was the highest so far. The Coal India Limited has agreed to supply 2,000 metric tonnes everyday to the State through the rail-cum-road mode, while 17.20% electricity was purchased from the Energy Exchange to fill the gap between demand and supply.