Power Cuts Push MSMEs towards Crisis; CICU Urges Punjab Government for Immediate Intervention

Ludhiana, June 29, 2026: The Chamber of Industrial & Commercial Undertakings (CICU) has expressed serious concern over the frequent and prolonged power cuts being imposed on industries falling under the 11 KV category, particularly the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which are already struggling to survive amidst multiple economic and operational challenges.
Expressing concern over the current situation, CICU President Upkar Singh Ahuja said that the industrial sector is passing through one of its most difficult phases. MSMEs, which are considered the backbone of the economy and major employment generators, are facing continuous hardships due to labor shortages, the Middle East crisis, and disruption in fuel supplies, weak global demand, declining exports, rising raw material prices, and escalating logistics costs. The addition of unscheduled power cuts has further worsened the situation.
J. S. Bhogal, Sr. Vice President of CICU, “said that small and medium industries work on strict delivery schedules and operate with limited financial resources. Frequent electricity interruptions not only halt production activities but also lead to delayed dispatches, reduced productivity, damage to machinery, and increased operational costs. Such interruptions directly affect the competitiveness and survival of MSMEs. Sh. Bhogal stated that while industries understand the increased power demand due to the summer season and paddy transplantation, the burden should not fall disproportionately on the industrial sector. Industries contribute significantly to the state's economy, generate employment, and contribute substantial revenue to the government. Therefore, uninterrupted power supply to industries is equally important for the economic growth of Punjab.
CICU has appealed to the Punjab Government and PSPCL to explore all possible alternate arrangements for ensuring continuous power availability. The Chamber suggested that additional electricity may be arranged through alternate sources, power exchanges, or other available mechanisms to bridge the supply gap and minimize the impact on industries. He further emphasized that industries are already operating under immense pressure due to global economic uncertainties and shrinking export markets. At such a critical time, prolonged power cuts can seriously affect production schedules, exports, and the confidence of investors.
CICU urged the State Government to treat the matter on a priority basis and take immediate corrective measures to ensure a stable and uninterrupted power supply to the industrial sector. The Chamber believes that safeguarding industries is essential not only for industrial growth but also for employment generation, exports, and the overall economic development of Punjab.
The Chamber assured the government of its full cooperation and requested the concerned authorities to initiate immediate action so that the industrial sector, especially MSMEs, can continue to operate smoothly and contribute to the state's economy.