Will Modi’s 9-minute blackout call on April 5 result in power grid failure? Here’s the answer

Team Udayavani, Apr 4, 2020, 2:39 PM IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s has called for a nine-minute blackout by asking people to switch off the lights in the house and burn candle or flashlight at 9 p.m. on April 5. This move has now raised concerns for power grid managers as they are gearing up for ensuring grid stability during the period.

There has been talks that this move will result in power grid failure.

However,  Experts claim that it is not a problem if there is a sudden increase or decrease in load but it becomes a matter of concern when they are not aware of it, but as they already know about the nine minute blackout, the grid lines will be ready for low load. Also, a lot of appliances in the house will be in operation for those nine minutes so the low consumption demand is adjusted.

The power ministry also said the event would not impact the national power grid much and that planning would be done in advance. Power Minister R K Singh has discussed the issue with Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) and the grid operator Power System Operator Corporation (POSOCO) and they are up to the task and are confident of managing the grid stability for the event.