KCCI expresses grave concerns over escalating power crisis in Kashmir

The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Nov 25: President Javid Ahmad Tenga of The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has voiced profound concerns regarding the worsening power crisis in the Kashmir Valley.
“Despite prior assurances from authorities, the situation has not only failed to improve but has taken a turn for the worse, plunging the region into prolonged darkness.”
The President expressed astonishment at the authorities’ apparent failure to comprehend the severity of the situation.
“The decision to procure insufficient power, as revealed by recent events, has pushed Kashmir into an unprecedented crisis. Despite assurances, the Valley continues to grapple with power shortages, revealing a gap of over 800 MW in electricity supply, resulting in extended power cuts that significantly impact the daily lives of the people.”
“Reports indicate that power supply levels are alarmingly below the demand recorded in 2004, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate action to avert a deepening crisis. The non-signing of power purchase agreements is identified as a critical factor contributing to the current predicament, causing substantial losses for various sectors including industry, tourism, handicrafts, trade, retail, horticulture, health services, and education.”
The KCCI delved into the specifics of the power infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, providing insights into the 13 projects managed by JKPDC with a cumulative capacity of 1197.4 MW for electricity production. Notably, Baghilar-1 and Baghilar-2, situated on the Chenab Basin, boast a combined capacity of 900 MW. LJHP and USHP-11 Kangan, each with a capacity of 105 MW, are located on the Jhelum Basin. The remaining nine projects have capacities below 30 MW.
In addition to these, the six central sector projects managed by NHPC contribute a total of 2250 MW to the region. However, the actual power received falls drastically short, hovering around 500 MW and occasionally dropping below 350 MW. This discrepancy exacerbates the challenges faced by residents and businesses in the region.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, the KCCI emphasized its impact not only on the business landscape but on crucial sectors, including healthcare. The pervasive power crisis is affecting everyday life in Kashmir, necessitating immediate attention and redressal.
The KCCI called upon relevant authorities to collaborate swiftly and effectively to address the power crisis, ensuring the well-being of the people and the sustained functioning of businesses in the Kashmir Valley.
They expressed hope that the concerns voiced by Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha would prompt decisive action, preventing the escalation of public anger amid the severe power crisis and impending harsh winter conditions.