As winter approaches, J-K face electricity scarcity because of a low proportion of hydropower in the Union Territory, as water reduces in rivers…reports Asian Lite News
The Gurez sector in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora district achieved a historic milestone on Sunday by being linked to the electricity grid for the first time since Independence. Previously, the region solely relied on diesel generators for power, making it the only area in the Valley to do so, according to officials.
The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) proudly declared the achievement on X, stating, “KPDCL is thrilled to share that Gurez now enjoys Grid connectivity with the successful charging of the 33kV Line and RSTN Dawar overcoming challenging terrain. This marks a significant milestone as it brings electricity to the only area in Kashmir that relied on DG sets.”
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha celebrated the occasion, emphasizing its historical significance for a region that traditionally faced isolation during winter months due to heavy snowfall.
“Historic day for Gurez! Grid connectivity reached the pristine valley for the first time after the country’s independence. 33/11kV Receiving Station energised today benefitting 1,500 consumers of various Panchayats, and efforts are on to connect all the villages in a phased manner,” remarked Manoj Sinha.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) administration on Sunday approved the purchase of an additional 500 megawatts (MW) of power from the Centre to meet the winter demand, according to an official statement.
As winter approaches, J-K face electricity scarcity because of a low proportion of hydropower in the Union Territory, as water reduces in rivers.
So in order to meet the gap in demand and supply, the administrative council that met here under the chairmanship of Lt Governor Manoj Sinha approved the signing of a fresh Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between J&K Power Corporation Limited and the NTPC regarding Singrauli-III power station run by the NTPC, the statement read.
This will subside the energy demand in Jammu and Kashmir which is increasing at a compound annual growth rate of 10 per cent.
Singrauli-II being a thermal power station is a must-run station and the electricity generated by it fulfils the demand of Jammu and Kashmir during winter when the generation from hydro generators of interstate generating stations goes down to 150-300 MW, a reduction of 70 to 90 per cent as compared to the summer season, mentioned the statement.
The new PPA regarding Singrauli-III would help the UT tide over the power shortage faced during the lean winter season, it added. (with inputs from ANI)