Power Plan, Principal Secretary PDD: Additional 500 MW to Restore Normalcy and Relief
In a promising development for the power situation in the Kashmir Valley, H. Rajesh Prasad, the Principal Secretary of the Power Development Department, conveyed to the Wattan Daily that they anticipate maintaining the curtailment schedule through the addition of 500 MW. This, he noted, would bring relief to the people by ensuring a consistent power supply and adhering to the load shedding plan.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration, responding to the pressing need, granted approval on Sunday for the acquisition of an extra 500 MW of stable power from the Ministry of Power (MOP). The objective is to fulfill the base load power requirement of J&K, especially crucial during the demanding winter months. To facilitate this, the Administrative Council (AC) sanctioned the execution of a new Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between J&K Power Corporation Limited (JKPCL) and NTPC for the operation of Singrauli-III.
According to Prasad, the imminent signing of the PPA—expected within a day or two—will herald the influx of the much-needed additional power supply to the valley. Expressing satisfaction with the completion of formalities, he affirmed the readiness for the agreement, which has been eagerly awaited.
Already witnessing an increase in electricity supply, currently ranging from 1500-1600 MWs, Prasad remains optimistic about further enhancement with the procurement of the additional 500 MWs. To address the persistent power crisis over the last two months, authorities plan to launch a comprehensive campaign across the valley advocating for the judicious use of electricity. Prasad outlined their intention to utilize various mediums to raise awareness about the importance of responsible electricity consumption.
The Kashmir Valley has grappled with acute power shortages, affecting both domestic and commercial consumers. Complaints from domestic users about deviations from the curtailment schedule echo alongside concerns from industrialists, who report substantial losses approaching 75 percent. The forthcoming infusion of power, coupled with the awareness campaign, aims to bring about a positive shift in the current power dynamics and alleviate the hardships faced by the residents and businesses in Kashmir.
