PDD Supplies 1200-1250 MWs Against Required 1400-1450 MWs
By Majid Nabi
Srinagar- As the number of tourists from India and abroad began to rise with soaring mercury, Kashmir valley has been experiencing sporadic power outages, as a result of 25 percent reduction in energy supply by hydro power utilities, including National Hydro Power Corporation Private Ltd (NHPC).
A senior official at the Power Development Department (PDD) told Kashmir Observer that J&K faces a 20 to 25 percent power deficit at the moment, while the department supplies 1100 to 1200 megawatts against the required 1400-1450 megawatts.
He said the sudden reduction in energy supply as a result of nonpayment of outstanding debts to the hydro electric giants including that of the Union Territory’s own power plants, forced the department to resort to the curtailment amidst rise in temperature.
The official further said the crises that might have arisen out of the spontaneous power cuts, will end once all debts are cleared. The department, he said, purchases energy from hydro power utilities as a commodity.
“We cannot say as to when the crises may end. It’s for the centre to take a call on the issue. Our present requirement is 1400-1450 megawatts and despite a 25 percent sudden shortfall, the department supplies 1100 to 1200 megawatts,” the official said, adding the government always makes sure that there is round the clock power supply in commercial areas.
It may be in place to mention that J&K for the past couple of weeks has been facing frequent power cuts ranging from two to three hours. The sporadic power outages have triggered outcry among the public, especially the business community.
Sources said unscheduled power cuts may continue until the burden of outstanding dues reduces to some extent, as not only the outer power houses, but UT owned power utilities too have reduced energy supply.
“These issues will continue until the consumers learn to use energy in a judicious manner and pay all outstanding bills without delay. This way, the department will be able to clear the outstanding debts. Required supply is possible when all outstanding debts are cleared. We need people’s cooperation in this direction,” they said.
Regarding smart power meters, sources said that people have to bear with the government, as there is no other way out to deal with the power pilferage.
“When consumers could pay monthly bills for mobiles, manage other bills, why can’t they manage smart meters? Smart meters are aimed at providing uninterrupted supply to the consumers on subsidized rates,” sources added.
They also said the government is likely to provide electricity to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category on subsidized rates once the smart meter installation process is completed in the UT.
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