Concerns over electricity generation in Punjab have resurfaced following the shutdown of three out of four units at the Guru Hargobind Thermal Plant (GHTP) in Lehra Mohabbat, Bathinda district. The 920 MW capacity power facility has been operating with just a single unit for nearly two weeks, generating a mere 167 MW of electricity. This sudden drop in output has raised critical questions regarding the stability of the state’s power grid during peak demand periods.
Operational Disruptions and Labor Strikes at GHTP
The primary driver behind the reduced capacity is a combination of technical issues and widespread labor agitation. Over 1,800 outsourced workers recently went on strike, severely impacting routine operations, coal unloading, and fly ash management at the plant. Union leader Jagsir Singh Bhangu stated that workers are demanding direct employment under Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) rather than being hired through private contractors. Although the strike was formally called off and workers returned to duty, key support operations remain partially affected, slowing down the full resumption of all units.
Technical Snares and Management Response
This is not the first time the plant has faced major operational hurdles; earlier in June, all four units were temporarily rendered non-functional. Addressing the current situation, GHTP Chief Engineer Sat Prakash Singh confirmed that three units were taken offline due to technical glitches coupled with labor union disruptions. Technical teams are working to rectify the mechanical faults, but managing logistical bottlenecks like coal handling remains a primary hurdle to bringing the remaining units back online smoothly.
Widespread Unrest Impacts Talwandi Sabo Thermal Plant
The power generation crisis is not isolated to Lehra Mohabbat. In Mansa district, workers at the 1,980 MW Talwandi Sabo Power Limited (TSPL) thermal plant in Banawala village have launched an indefinite protest outside the facility. Backed by local farmer unions, the workers are demanding a 15% increase in minimum wages. Protesters have vowed to continue their demonstration until their financial demands are met, adding further strain to Punjab’s energy sector.
Future Outlook for Power Generation in Punjab
With two of Punjab’s major thermal plants facing simultaneous operational and labor issues, energy officials are closely monitoring power supply reserves. The ongoing labor disputes highlight systemic challenges within the outsourced staffing model used across state power infrastructure. Ensuring swift technical repairs and resolving wage grievances remain essential steps to preventing widespread power shortages across urban and rural consumer sectors in Punjab.
