Fully prepared, there will be no power cuts this summer, says Haryana Energy Minister Anil Vij

Gurgaon: Energy minister Anil Vij has ordered a high-level inquiry into the recent gas pipeline fire in the city, calling it a grave safety lapse.

Speaking to reporters during his visit to the city, Vij said a probe committee under the additional chief secretary (ACS) of the energy department will investigate whether gas pipelines have been wrongly laid beneath electric power lines.

"A gas pipeline was found running under a power feeder in Gurgaon just two days ago. How was this allowed? Which department laid it first — gas or electricity?" Vij questioned, adding that the proximity of such utilities poses a major threat. A full survey of the city will be undertaken to identify any further violations, he said.

On power outages during the peak summer months, Vij stated that "We are fully prepared. There will be no power cuts." He detailed preparations, including stationing transformer banks and response vehicles at all substations. Additionally, weak wires are being replaced, and transformers with lower load capacity are being upgraded in a phased manner, he added.

The minister also spoke about the expansion of the state's thermal power capacity. "Thermal units are being set up and expanded at Khedar and Panipat. Prime Minister Modi has already laid the foundation stone of an 800 MW unit in Yamunanagar," he said, adding that the state has ample electricity and is addressing faults promptly.

Vij criticised officials for ignoring calls from elected representatives. Vij targeted the Congress party for questioning the enforcement directorate's to Robert Vadra. "They want all investigative agencies shut down. Do they want a lawless country?" he asked. He emphasised that agencies like ED and police only investigate and submit findings; punishment is determined by the courts.