The number of people affected by power blackouts in India reached a peak of 700 million people as the world's 2nd most populous nation goes through a 2nd day without electricity.

Recently we were reminiscing about the great U.S./Canada eastern blackout of 2003 that affected 50 million people, some for more than a day. That happened the afternoon of August 14th just after 4 o'clock and ranks among the worst blackouts in world history. For a list of worst blackouts click here.

WORST BLACKOUT EVER

If you remember, a complete void of electric power not only affected lights, appliances, traffic lights and other things we take for granted daily, but subsequent issues like gasoline supply, ATM machines, water purification and even cellular service. It is hard to imagine over half the population of India, much of it at a standstill, with most not receiving any reasonable explanation for what has happened, what MAY happen, or when power might be restored. Their wiring may explain part of it.

Some of the pictures below may help illustrate the dilemma, (most of them in Delhi) which has been blamed on certain states taking more than their allotment of power, thereby causing a crash. At a time when India is looking to be taken seriously as a completely industrialized/modern country, this is a setback on many levels.

Here is a VIDEO with some details followed by more pictures. Though no lives have been lost, officials feel a mass protest and revolt could be serious. (UPDATE:  As of Wed., Aug 1/12 power is mostly restored. Click here to read more.) If you have any insight into more through friends or relatives click the envelope below the title above to send me an email, or just LEAVE COMMENTS.

For other Larry Fedoruk blogs and features, click here.