Toronto, Aug 16: The unprecedented black out in north America prevented Indians here from celebrating Independence Day as all means of transportation in the Canadian city were thrown out of gear. "All Independence Day functions have been cancelled as millions of hard-hit residents have been ordered to stay home by the government," Duvya Manchanda, Consul General said today.
He said people could not come to attend the scheduled celebrations as the sub-way and public transport system were completely disrupted and cars rendered useless as petrol pumps were not functioning.
Millions of people spent a sleepless night without power and water. A large number of offices, shops, restaurants and business establishments remained closed.
There was no fixed timetable for full restoration of power, but a spokesperson for the Ontario government said lights would come back soon.
Meanwhile, Independence Day was celebrated with much gaiety in the Indian ocean island nation of Seychelles.
A record 500 people turned up at the India House where the national flag was unfurled by High Commissioner Malay Mishra.
A cultural programme was also organised on the occasion in which renowned santoor maestro Satish Vyas and tabla player Mukundraj Deo enthralled the audience.
Bureau Report