SRINAGAR: In a major push for Ladakh’s power sector, the Government of India has sanctioned a Revised Cost Estimate-II (RCE-II) of Rs 1,925.28 crore for intra-state transmission projects under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP-2015), reports appearing in the media said.
The approval, conveyed by the Union Ministry of Power, clears the administrative and financial decks for completing critical transmission lines that have long been in demand by the Union Territory. The revised sanction specifically paves the way for expediting two major projects — the 220 kV Phyang-Diskit (Nubra) transmission line and the 220 kV Drass-Padum (Zanskar) line.
Originally awarded in July 2021 at an estimated cost of Rs 1,203.08 crore, the projects had faced delays. With the fresh approval, implementation will now resume on a fast track, with a targeted completion timeline of October 2026. The projects are being executed by RECPDCL, with POWERGRID providing project management and consultancy support.
Once completed, the two transmission lines will bring 24×7 reliable power to the Nubra and Zanskar valleys, ending decades of dependence on diesel generators. Currently, around 28 DG stations of 7 MVA and 5 MVA capacity serve as the main power source in the region, contributing to high costs and significant carbon emissions. Their phasing out will mark both a financial and environmental milestone for Ladakh.
The availability of a robust grid network will also lay the foundation for integrating renewable energy projects, including large-scale solar parks and schemes such as the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Officials said the improved transmission backbone will support tourism, defence establishments, and local industries while ensuring socio-economic development in one of India’s most remote and strategic regions.
The sanction was granted by the Monitoring Committee of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) in its 52nd meeting chaired by the Union Power Secretary.
