Chennai, Nov 12: With the state’s daily electricity demand averaging 16,000 megawatts (MW), Tamil Nadu is gearing up for a massive power procurement exercise worth over Rs 25,100 crore over the next five years to ensure uninterrupted supply during both regular and peak hours.

According to the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO), the state currently generates an average of 3,000 MW from thermal plants, 1,000 MW from hydropower stations, and around 150 MW from gas-based plants.

The remaining demand is met through central generating stations and private power companies. To address the increasing consumption, particularly during high-demand periods, the state has floated tenders to procure 500 MW of electricity every day during peak hours for the next three years. In addition, a five-year tender has been issued to purchase 1,000 MW of power round the clock from private producers.

The peak hours, between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. and again from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., are the most expensive period for electricity procurement. Even if the maximum tariff is capped at Rs 8 per unit, the daily expenditure for 500 MW would amount to nearly Rs 3.2 crore, translating to about Rs 3,500 crore over three years.

Meanwhile, the 24-hour supply agreement for 1,000 MW over five years is projected to cost approximately Rs 21,600 crore. Together, the total outlay for both arrangements will reach Rs 25,100 crore.

Officials noted that the decision was made to prevent outages during the upcoming northeast monsoon season and to maintain grid stability as the state’s demand continues to rise steadily.

The government is also exploring renewable energy integration, with a focus on solar and wind sources, to gradually reduce dependence on costly thermal and imported power.

The new procurement strategy is expected to provide crucial support to Tamil Nadu’s industries and domestic consumers alike, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply despite fluctuating generation levels from hydel and renewable sources.

Mumbai: Five days after the Sandhurst Road railway accident, the Government Railway Police (GRP) has yet to register an FIR in the case. Officials said that statements of witnesses and injured passengers are being recorded. However, sources revealed that no statements from railway employees have been taken so far.

As earlier reported by The Free Press Journal, the GRP has adopted a “wait and watch” approach in the investigation, saying further action will be taken after reviewing all evidence and testimonies

The accident occurred on November 6 at Sandhurst Road railway station, in which two commuters died and three others sustained injuries. The incident led to an agitation by railway employees protesting against the GRP’s decision to lodge an FIR against two Central Railway engineers in connection with the June 9 Mumbra mishap that claimed five lives.

Union members from the Central Railway Mazdoor Sangh staged a demonstration at CSMT, allegedly blocking the motormen’s lobby, which resulted in train services being stalled.

Police sources said that walking on railway tracks is an offence under the Indian Railways Act; hence, the GRP is proceeding with caution in its investigation and is also seeking legal opinion on whether charges of negligence or culpable homicide not amounting to murder may apply.

A relative of one of the injured commuters said, “The police recorded my and my brother’s statements.” He further added that due to the strike, local trains were halted for a long time, compelling passengers to get off the train. “No one was willing to walk on the tracks, but the situation forced commuters to do so,” he said.

Meanwhile, injured passenger Hafiza Chougle is now out of danger and has started responding to treatment. Her ventilator has also been removed, confirmed her son Saif.

In the accident, Haley Momaiya (19), a resident of Matunga, and Surykant Naik (68), a resident of Nagpur, lost their lives. The injured include Hafiza Chougle (60), her son Kaif (22), both residents of Mumbra, and Haley’s aunt, Khushbu Momaiya.

Mumbai: Following the recent bomb blast in Delhi, the Mumbai Police have gone on high alert, intensifying security measures across the city. Law enforcement and intelligence agencies have been directed to remain vigilant, and surveillance has been stepped up at key locations.

According to senior police sources, additional security personnel have been deployed at crowded areas such as railway stations, malls, markets, religious sites, and public parking lots. Every vehicle and individual entering or exiting these areas is being closely monitored.

Police teams have begun a citywide inspection of all public parking lots to check for suspicious vehicles or objects. A list of abandoned vehicles has also been compiled, and verification work is underway.

Sources said the Mumbai Police are also leveraging advanced technology to strengthen security. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled cameras installed across the city are being used to enhance surveillance and quickly identify suspicious activity or individuals.

Security has been particularly tightened at sensitive locations such as Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and major railway stations. Additionally, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squads (BDDS) have been put on high alert, with 24-hour patrolling and checking intensified across the city.