As the echoes of the impending electricity power cut persist, the state finds itself on the brink of an unfortunate reality, soon after the conclusion of the Onam festivities. The current situation can be attributed to the volatility of the rainy season, which has destabilized the power supply. Nevertheless, the approach of the electricity board coupled with planning failures has significantly exacerbated this issue. Despite reservoirs reaching full capacity during the monsoon, the hydropower generated falls short, meeting only a meagre twenty percent of the overall demand. The remaining eighty percent necessitates procurement from alternate sources. Regrettably, the production of hydropower has shown a decline, further worsening the crisis.

Simultaneously, the hesitance to initiate necessary agreements in a timely manner has led to exorbitant charges for external electricity. These critical actions should have been executed when market prices were more favourable. Even though purchasing electricity at higher rates seemingly implies a loss for the board, this burden is eventually shifted to consumers through surcharges. Post-Onam, with the advent of new regulations, the board could potentially mitigate its predicament by shifting the additional financial burden onto consumers, compounding the already prevalent high rates and levies.

The board's revocation of four previously established long-term contracts has dealt a severe blow. Additionally, the supply of electricity from thermal sources has diminished due to the scarcity of coal. These altered circumstances invariably necessitate an increase in the cost of procuring external power. However, the board's precarious financial situation hardly permits such an escalation. In essence, the electricity board finds itself enmeshed in an unprecedented crisis that can only be surmounted with governmental intervention. Yet, given the government's own financial constraints, this prospect appears unlikely.

The unanticipated deviation in weather patterns has caught everyone off guard. Despite forecasts from various meteorological centres indicating substantial rainfall, the state has found itself enduring scorching heat and parched conditions. A conspicuous mismanagement on the board's part lies in its failure to adequately strategize and execute alternative power generation methods, despite acknowledging the insufficiency of hydropower.

While the broader energy landscape has witnessed enhancements, with streamlined distribution systems ensuring seamless power supply across the nation, the current scenario remains grim. States grappling with energy deficits often proactively engage in advance agreements for purchasing external power. Sadly, the KSEB appears to have disregarded this prudent approach presuming a bountiful rainy season.

The unfortunate cancellation of long-term contracts has resulted in a loss of 450 MW of power, coupled with a 100 MW decrease in thermal power generation due to coal scarcity. Consequently, the board is now compelled to procure extra electricity at a staggering cost of Rs 15 crore daily. As the crisis deepens, it is almost certain that the board will resort to raising consumer levies as a means of recuperation. Regrettably, this seems to be the sole recourse the board is familiar with.