St Stephen’s goes without power for over 36 hours

For most Delhiites, Friday was cold and gloomy. But for students of St. Stephen's College, the day was gloomier and colder.

For most Delhiites, Friday was cold and gloomy. But for students of St. Stephen's College, the day was gloomier and colder. Sapped of power for over 36 hours, the college was forced to conduct its annual internal tests in unlit classrooms on Friday morning.

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The power cut, which started on late Wednesday night and continued till Friday, was caused by ongoing work for the Commonwealth Games at North Campus.

“Trenches are being dug up right outside the college. Our power supply cable snapped during this work on Wednesday night,” said Nandita Narain, Dean, Students’ Welfare.

Resident students at Stephen’s have faced the most trouble since then.

“We have been preparing for our tests in candlelight for last two nights. Many hostelers have moved out to study at their friends’ place,” said a third year student, who did not wish to be named.

“And to make matters worse, water supply too has been irregular.”

The college is currently conducting its annual house tests, whose marks are compulsorily added to the final marks of University examination.

“The concerned departments are doing the best they can and I have been assured by New Delhi Power Limited (NDPL) that power will be restored by tonight,” said Principal Valson Thampu. “However, we do have a contingency plan in place, if that does not happen,” he added.

Taking note of the inconvenience faced by students, the Principal has relaxed rules and allowed students to study at the college assembly and dining hall, which will be lit by a generator, on Friday night.

“We will also have a few teachers on duty tonight to see that there is no mischief and that students can make full use of the arrangements made by us,” added Thampu.