The Times of India             13.02.2014

NMC's 'batti bandh' drive on February 14

NAGPUR: Continuing the energy efficiency drive, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has planned few activities for the campaign's second phase slated on February 14. Mayor Anil Sole has urged citizens to participate in the drive by switching off the lights at their households on Friday, a full moon day, as a part of environment conservation.

The civic body had launched the drive on the first full moon day of the calendar year on January 15 as a part of model solar city being implemented under the central government's scheme. NMC received response from 16,110 citizens for the drive.

An NMC official said that the number of citizens giving a written support to the drive had increased to over 30,000. "We are expecting good participation from citizens. Those planning to switch off lights on the day for for over 30 minutes should write to NMC. This is very necessary to reduce the power consumption. Energy worth 1,456.60 units was saved thanks to the first phase's drive," he said.

Those interested in participating in the drive can contact their respective NMC zone offices.

The official added that the application forms for solar water heaters will be made available from February 14. "NMC announced to distribute 3,450 solar water heaters at half rate. Application forms will be available at all zone offices and head office. Citizens should submit the forms with required documents on or before February 20," he said.