india

Updated: Jun 08, 2014 23:08 IST

Power supply to shopping malls in the Capital will now be stopped after 10pm, according to an order by Delhi lieutenant governor (L-G) Najeeb Jung.

The L-G on Sunday ordered this move with immediate effect as part of measures to address the power crisis in the Capital.

“Whenever there is less supply of power, the powhits er distribution companies will announce a schedule informing people about the timings when electric supply will be cut. Discoms are working out a schedule which will be shared with the public," said an advisory from the office of the L-G.

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“Power supply to malls will not be available after 10pm. High mast halogen lamps in the streets, which consume more power, will be switched off during peak night hours to conserve energy.”

All government offices, including Delhi secretariat, as well as universities and colleges have been asked to switch off air conditioners between 3.30pm and 4.30pm to conserve power during peak hours of the day.

“This does not include emergency services and critical institutions such as hospitals,” the L-G said in the advisory.

Meanwhile, mall managements said the move was only a temporary solution.

“This is a stop-gap arrangement. The government should look at permanent solutions,” said Benu Sehgal, vice-president, mall management, DLF.

“Our business hours are till 10. Only some restaurants and multiplexes function after this, and we have back-up electricity to cater to them. But the costs will increase. We will see this as our contribution to society.”