Power blackout hits Puerto Rico as island prepares for Easter weekend​​

A power blackout hit all of Puerto Rico on Wednesday as island prepared to celebrate Easter. The massive blackout left the streets deserted. Citizens were fuming with many suggesting the government to cancel its contract with Luma and Genra PR that looked after power generation in island. (Image: AP)

Dozens of people were stranded on an overpass next to the rails of the rapid transit system that served the capital San Juan and were asked to evacuate the train due to power outrage. (Image: X/Gian Cordero)

A gas station employee was seen directing the traffic as cars began to pile up during the blackout. Around 1.4 million people were affected. The island has suffered with chronic power outrage since 2017 when Hurricane Maria stroked with last blackout on the occasion of New Year (Image: AP)

Customers dined inside a restaurant lit by battery-powered lanterns during the power outrage. Several suffered with water shortage and those without generators gathered around grocery stores to buy ice. With more than 40 per cent poverty rate, not everyone can afford solar panels or generators. (Image: AP)

Vehicles navigated in the dark streets of the city. Traffic slowed down causing congestion as the police officers were busy to navigate traffic in busy junctions. Professional baseball and basketball games were cancelled as the generator fumes filled the air. (Image: AP)

Headlights illuminated in the Cobblestone street of Old San Juan. Hotels were near capacity as thousands of tourists arrived to celebrate Easter in the island. The power cut caused inconvenience to tourists. All the hotels and businesses were in heavy pressure to resolve the issue. (Image: AP)

The locals were seen filling fuel containers at the gas stations as an emergency measure. They expressed their angst by taking the issue to X. The reason behind shutdown isn't clear. Around 62 per cent of island's electricity relied on petroleum-fired power plants. (Image: AP)