Ludhiana: A critical labour shortage has hobbled Punjab’s state power utility, leaving nearly two-thirds of sanctioned positions vacant as a strike by contract workers further cripples the region’s ability to repair storm-damaged infrastructure.Official data from the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) central zone reveals that 4,998 of the 7,876 authorised posts are vacant as of now. The shortage spans technical and clerical cadres across Ludhiana, Khanna, Samrala, and Jagraon, leaving just 2,878 employees to manage a rapidly expanding consumer base.An indefinite strike by 1,000 private contractors in the complaint handling bikes (CHB) unit worsened the staffing crisis this week. These workers typically manage minor technical faults and “fuse-off” calls. Their absence, combined with the vacancy of 2,195 positions of assistant lineman, led to prolonged blackouts following recent severe weather.A senior official in the PSPCL said: “The number of consumers is increasing while our staff is decreasing. Regular hiring has not kept pace with requirements. We relied on contract staff to bridge the gap, but their strike has created a major challenge.”Frustrated, residents of Ludhiana reported waiting hours for technicians to arrive. In several categories, the vacancy rates are near total; all nine sanctioned “AAE installation” roles are empty, while 163 of 177 meter reader positions remain unfilled.Jagdev Hans, PSPCL chief engineer, said the department was “maximising available resources” to maintain supply. “Our priority is resolving issues as quickly as possible despite the constraints,” he said.
