Amid an intense heatwave and rising humidity, people across Odisha are facing severe hardship due to frequent and prolonged power cuts. While the scorching weather has already made life difficult, recurring electricity disruptions have further added to public suffering, leaving residents frustrated and exhausted.

According to reports, power outages have become a regular occurrence in several areas over the past few days. Residents allege that electricity is being cut repeatedly and, in many cases, the power supply is not restored for hours. Despite making repeated complaints and informing the concerned authorities, people claim that no effective action has been taken, leading to growing anger among the public.

The worsening situation has sparked protests in different parts of the state. Agitated residents have adopted unique and symbolic ways to express their dissatisfaction. In some areas, protesters were seen wearing saree as a mark of protest to highlight the unbearable conditions caused by power cuts during the extreme heat. In certain locations, demonstrations intensified as people resorted to road blockades, disrupting traffic and demanding immediate action from authorities.

Reacting to the issue of widespread power disruptions, Odisha Energy Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo stated that the ongoing heatwave situation is beyond anyone’s control. He explained that electricity demand has surged significantly during peak hours due to increased use of air conditioners and cooling appliances.

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The Minister said that the excessive demand is resulting in overloading of power infrastructure, causing transformers to burn out in several places. However, he assured that the government and power distribution agencies are taking steps to restore electricity supply at the earliest possible time.

He said efforts are ongoing to ensure uninterrupted power supply for consumers and to minimise inconvenience during the ongoing heatwave.

“We have clearly directed not to have power cuts. The ongoing heatwave situation is beyond anyone’s control. Electricity demand has surged significantly during peak hours due to increased use of air conditioners and cooling appliances. The excessive demand is resulting in overloading of power infrastructure, causing transformers to burn out in several places. Efforts are being made continuously to ensure uninterrupted power supply for consumers in Odisha,” said Energy Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo.