Punjab University orders removal of air conditioners from hostels

The Vice-Chancellor of Punjab University has ordered to remove all air conditioners (AC) from the hostels of the university.

The move comes as the administration expresses concerns over the unauthorized use of CAs, which has resulted in significant financial losses for the institution.

According to academic sources, many hostel residents use air conditioners for long periods without contributing to electricity bills. This practice imposes a heavy financial burden on the university which, according to administration officials, loses hundreds of thousands of rupees every month due to uncontrolled power consumption.

The administration further clarified that air conditioners are not allowed in the hostel premises. Exceptions will only be made for foreign students and those with health conditions, who will be allowed to install air conditioners with special permission.

University officials have issued instructions for installing circuit breakers to prevent unauthorized use of air conditioners and heaters by students.

“The use of air conditioners and heaters has contributed significantly to the increase in electricity bills, and it has become untenable for the university to bear these costs,” said a member of the administration.

Hostel accommodation at Punjab University currently costs Rs 2,000 per month, but the added pressure from electricity costs has exacerbated the financial difficulties facing the university.

Officials stressed that removing air conditioners is a necessary step to avoid further financial losses and ensure equitable use of electricity resources.