SRINAGAR: President Javid Ahmad Tenga of The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) voiced deep concerns over the escalating power crisis in the Kashmir Valley. Despite assurances from authorities, the situation has not only failed to improve but has, in fact, worsened, plunging the region into prolonged darkness.
Tenga expressed astonishment at the authorities’ apparent failure to grasp the severity of the situation, stating, “The decision to procure insufficient power has led to an unprecedented crisis in Kashmir. Despite assurances, the Valley faces power shortages, exposing a gap of over 800 MW in electricity supply, resulting in extended power cuts that severely impact the daily lives of the people.”
Reports indicate that power supply levels are alarmingly below the demand recorded in 2004, emphasising the urgent need for immediate action. Tenga highlighted the non-signing of power purchase agreements 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 power infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir has been examined, revealing insights into the 13 projects managed by JKPDC with a cumulative capacity of 1197.4 MW for electricity production,” Tenga stated. 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, while the remaining nine projects have capacities below 30 MW.
Tenga also highlighted the contribution of six central sector projects managed by NHPC, totalling 2250 MW, but expressed concern that the actual power received falls drastically short, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents and businesses.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, the KCCI emphasized its impact on the business landscape and crucial sectors, including healthcare. Tenga stated, “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.
Tenga expressed hope that Lt Governor Manoj Sinha’s concern about power outages would have a desired effect on those controlling KPDCL, urging swift measures to prevent public anger, especially with the onset of severe winter. “Instead of hiding behind conflicting statements, we urge swift measures to prevent public anger,” Tenga emphasised.
