TNI Bureau: Odisha Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo has attributed the recent power outages in the state to excessive electricity demand during the ongoing heatwave, while defending the role of Tata Power.

Reacting to complaints over frequent power cuts, Singh Deo said the severe heatwave situation is beyond anyone’s control. He stated that electricity consumption has increased sharply during peak hours due to higher use of air conditioners and cooling appliances, resulting in transformer overloading and burnouts in several areas.

The minister said clear instructions have been issued to avoid power cuts, but the unprecedented rise in demand is creating technical problems in the power distribution system. He added that efforts are being made to restore electricity supply at the earliest wherever disruptions occur.

However, criticism has intensified over the recurring outages, with allegations that Tata Power failed to rise to the occasion despite the growing demand situation. The opposition has accused the minister of defending the power utility even as consumers across the state continue to face prolonged electricity disruptions during the intense summer heat.