Power crisis: 240 passenger trains cancelled in India to make way for 400 coal rakes

Amid the looming power crisis in various states, as many as 240 passenger trains have been cancelled to facilitate the movement of at least 400 rakes across the country.

Last year, railways plied 347 coal rakes. This year’s figure of 400 coal rakes is the highest ever, Railways sources said.

Many states are faced with power outages. Earlier, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said the demand for electricity has increased in 16 states due to the rising mercury levels and coal is not being supplied in accordance with the requirement, affecting the power supply. He said the situation was a national crisis.

Delhi Power Minister Satyendar Jain said that major establishments, such as hospitals, could face power disruption if coal is not supplied to the power plants immediately.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal tweeted: “There is a huge shortage of power in the country. So far we have managed it somehow in Delhi. The situation is very grave in the whole of India. Together we soon need to find its solution. Quick, concrete steps are required to tackle this problem.”Live TV