Ludhiana, April 17 -- The Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) recorded a staggering 33% spike in power demand on April 15 as compared to the same day last year, a jump far steeper than the usual 10% to 15% annual rise, officials confirmed.

As residents continue to reel under the sweltering heat, they are increasingly turning to air conditioners and coolers, significantly straining the power infrastructure. Official data shows that the maximum demand on Tuesday touched around 1524 megawatt from the usual 1020 megawatt during the same time last year.

These demands stood at 9567 megawatts, up from 7207 megawatts on the corresponding day in 2024, an unprecedented rise of 2360 megawatts across Punjab. "The soaring temperature forc...