Ludhiana, June 29
The Chamber of Industrial & Commercial Undertakings (CICU) has raised alarm over frequent and prolonged power cuts hitting industries under the 11 KV category, with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) bearing the brunt. Already battling economic and operational headwinds, MSMEs now face an added blow from unscheduled electricity interruptions.
CICU President Upkar Singh Ahuja warned that the industrial sector is passing through one of its toughest phases. MSMEs — the backbone of Punjab’s economy and key employment generators — are struggling with labor shortages, global fuel disruptions, weak demand, declining exports, rising raw material prices and escalating logistics costs. Power cuts, he said, have worsened an already precarious situation.
Senior Vice President J. S. Bhogal stressed that small and medium industries operate on strict delivery schedules with limited financial resources. Repeated outages halt production, delay dispatches, reduce productivity, damage machinery and inflate costs — directly threatening competitiveness and survival. While industries recognize the seasonal spike in demand due to summer heat and paddy transplantation, Bhogal argued that the burden should not fall disproportionately on them. Industries, he noted, contribute significantly to Punjab’s economy, employment, and government revenue, making uninterrupted supply critical for growth.
CICU has urged the Punjab Government and PSPCL to explore all possible alternatives — including power exchanges and other sources — to bridge the supply gap. The Chamber warned that prolonged cuts at this juncture could derail production schedules, exports, and investor confidence.
Calling for urgent corrective measures, CICU emphasized that safeguarding industries is vital not only for industrial growth but also for jobs, exports, and Punjab’s overall economic development. The Chamber assured full cooperation but pressed the government to act swiftly so that MSMEs can continue to operate and sustain the state’s economy.