SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has reported significant damage to distribution transformers (DTs) due to unauthorised overloading from crude heating gadgets, particularly in peak winter conditions. Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, Aaquib S Waheed Deva, expressed grave concern over the alarming trend, highlighting the strain on the power infrastructure.
In the past four days alone, 192 DT substations have been damaged across the region, some severely enough to catch fire, endangering nearby properties and household electronics. Despite the challenges, KPDCL replaced all the damaged DTs within the same timeframe, with the Central Workshop at Pampore and Divisional Workshops operating continuously to meet the demand.
Specific incidents were reported from Bon Dialgam in Electric Division Anantnag and Tulmulla in Electric Division Ganderbal, where transformers failed due to excessive, unauthorised heating loads. Er. Aaquib Deva emphasised that the department is repairing and restoring an average of 50 DTs daily, underscoring the urgent need for consumers to adhere to load limits to prevent further damage.
She urged consumers to use power judiciously to ensure reliable supply during the harsh winter months. “We have COPD patients and students preparing for exams. Overloading DTs causes avoidable hardships, including prolonged power outages,” she said.
To combat power pilferage and protect infrastructure, KPDCL has intensified inspections, conducting 884 drives on a single day. Pulwama led with 242 inspections, followed by Srinagar and Ganderbal. Inspection Squads are patrolling day and night across all 19 Electric Divisions to curb unauthorised power usage.
Deva also issued a stern warning to consumers in metered areas found tampering with meters or using illegal connections. “Strict action will be taken against violators under the Electricity Act,” she said, adding that the Central Inspection Squad is complementing Circle Squads in identifying and penalising offenders.
