Bhat Yasir
Despite having lower per capita power consumption than its neighboring regions, Jammu Kashmir continues to face severe power shortages, especially during the cold winter months.
According to the latest Central Electricity Authority (CEA) report, J-K’s per capita consumption stands at 1526 kWh, compared to neighboring Himachal Pradesh’s 1799 kWh, and far below Chandigarh (1674 kWh), Punjab (2574 kWh), Delhi (1848 kWh), and Haryana (2360 kWh)
The situation has worsened with the onset of Chillai-Kalan, Kashmir’s harshest winter period. Locals across the region have reported prolonged unscheduled power cuts, despite the installation of smart meters in certain areas.
Residents of Kani Mazar in Downtown and Fateh Kadal shared their frustration with the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), accusing them of failing to honor the promised curtailment schedules.
“In these bone-chilling winters, we are forced to use freezing water,” said Furqan Farooq from Kani Mazar.
Imtiyaz Mir from Fateh Kadal added, “The power voltage is dangerously low during peak hours, and this year, the cuts have been worse than before.
Even in the southern districts of Pulwama and Shopian, locals are facing similar power disruptions.
“We are enduring intense cold, but the authorities seem indifferent to our struggles,” said a resident from Pulwama.
These power outages are particularly harmful to vulnerable groups, including those with medical conditions like COPD, as reported by concerned residents.
Despite these challenges, J-K possesses a significant hydropower potential, with an installed capacity of 3500 MW, contributed by both state-owned and central plants.
However, during the winter months, the generation capacity of these plants drastically drops, often down to just 600 MW due to reduced water levels.
Recently, power supply was increased by 100 to 150 MW in an attempt to alleviate the crisis. “We are working to minimize transmission and distribution losses, and we have increased power supply from 1500 MW to 1600-1650 MW,” a senior official stated.
However, despite these measures, residents remain skeptical. “We are paying higher bills, but the supply is at its lowest when we need it the most for heating,” said Aijaz Ahmad, a shopkeeper in Ganderbal.
As the region braces for even colder temperatures, many are left wondering if the government’s promises will materialize, or if they will continue to suffer through the harsh winter months without a reliable power supply.