Chandigarh: HC grants 700 families three‑month generator power at ₹45 per unit

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered that 700 families in Chandigarh be supplied electricity from generators at a rate of ₹45 per unit for a period of three months, offering a stop‑gap measure during an intense heatwave.

The city has been experiencing soaring temperatures, and the existing power grid has struggled to meet demand. The court observed that the administration’s inability to maintain a reliable supply has left many households without essential electricity.

Real estate promoters had drawn buyers with the promise of well‑planned projects and modern amenities, only to disappear after the initial payments were made. The sudden withdrawal left investors without the services they had been led to expect, compounding the current hardship.

Under the court’s directive, the generator sets will be made available to the affected families at the specified tariff, allowing them to run fans, coolers and other necessities throughout the summer months. The arrangement is intended to bridge the gap until the regular supply chain is restored.

The episode has highlighted the vulnerability of urban residents to utility failures, especially during extreme weather. It has also sparked discussion among local stakeholders about the need for more robust infrastructure planning.

The families filed a petition arguing that the lack of power infringes on their right to live with dignity. The High Court’s intervention demonstrates its willingness to act when public services falter.

While the order provides immediate respite, the details on a timeline for restoring normal electricity service have not been specified. The focus remains on ensuring that the 700 households can endure the heat without undue strain.

This measure, though temporary, underscores the importance of responsive governance in safeguarding basic needs during crises.

Source: Hindustan Times