BBN industries facing challenges amid blackout directives

The industrial belt of Baddi, Barotiwala and Nalagarh faces a new challenge as the district administration has directed them not to operate at night amid escalating tensions with Pakistan.

The area houses 90 per cent of the state’s industry and shares borders with Punjab and Haryana. A majority of the investors, who commute from Chandigarh and Panchkula, will also have to leave early to ensure that they reach home by 7 pm as per the directions issued by their respective government agencies.

The Nalagarh Truck Operators Union had extended free service to the Indian Army during this crucial time, said association’s general secretary Dinesh Kaushal. “Being Asia’s largest transport union — with 10,000 vehicles under its fleet — our drivers have offered to help the nation during this exigency for free,” said Kaushal.

The DC and Chairman of Solan District Disaster Management Authority on Friday issued orders to all Panchayat Secretaries, Gram Panchayat Pradhans, Block Development Committee and Zila Parishad members to remain alert and switch off all lights at night.

The residents have been advised to cover solar lights with dark coloured cloth to curb its reflection in the dark and also temporarily snap the power supply of solar systems for a few days to curb emission of light at night.

“Additional force has been deputed and there is regular checking of vehicles entering the state. The movement of outsiders at tourist places such as Kasauli and sensitive places is being monitored,” said Solan SP Gaurav Singh.

The District Magistrate clarified that in case of essential production activities, such industries should ensure that no light escaped the premises by covering all outlets using blackened material. Further, the DM directed that all business premises be closed at 8 pm every evening.

Himachal Tribune