Kerala to resolve power crisis by mid-September, CM assures amid outage backlash

Kerala's government is targeting mid-September to resolve the ongoing power crisis that has triggered public discontent across the state, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Thursday. The announcement comes as the administration faces sustained criticism over rolling blackouts affecting homes and businesses statewide.

Vijayan indicated that measures to improve the electricity supply situation would be accelerated in the coming weeks. The state's power deficit has strained the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) as demand outpaces generation capacity during the monsoon season.

To address concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding power cuts, the CM said the KSEB would be instructed to improve its announcements regarding scheduled outages. The directive aims to help citizens and businesses plan their activities more effectively during periods of reduced electricity availability.

The power crisis has emerged as a significant political issue in Kerala, with opposition parties and consumer groups questioning the government's preparedness and long-term energy planning. State officials have attributed the shortage partly to increased demand and lower-than-expected hydroelectric generation.

The government's commitment to resolving the crisis by mid-September will be closely watched as monsoon season typically affects power generation in the southwestern state.