SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir is likely to face power curtailments over the next few days as the simultaneous shutdown of two major hydroelectric projects has created a significant power deficit.
In a public advisory, KPDCL said flushing operations at the Baglihar Hydroelectric Project (HEP) will begin at 10 pm on Sunday, requiring a complete shutdown of the project for four to five days. The corporation said generation from the project will be reduced gradually from 3 pm, with the plant scheduled to be fully shut by 7:30 pm.
The advisory said the Salal Hydroelectric Project has already remained shut since July 18 for a planned 10-day maintenance shutdown, further affecting power availability in the Union Territory.
KPDCL said the simultaneous closure of the two key hydroelectric projects is expected to create a power shortfall of around 1,000 MW across Jammu and Kashmir during the peak summer demand period, when a substantial share of the Valley’s electricity is supplied by Baglihar and Salal.
The power utility said efforts are underway to minimise the impact by procuring electricity through short-term purchases from the power exchange. However, it cautioned that any remaining deficit may have to be managed through forced power curtailments.
KPDCL appealed to consumers to use electricity judiciously and cooperate during the shutdown period until normal generation resumes.
