SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCC&I) has been closely monitoring the inconsistent electric power supply situation in the Kashmir Valley in recent weeks, impacting trade, households, and the public.
The KCC&I has expressed concern and disappointment regarding the conflicting policies of the KPDCL regarding regular power supply. “The department had pledged uninterrupted electric supply with smart meter installation, which has not materialized, resulting in erratic power throughout the summer,” read a press release from KCCI.
The department has now shifted its focus to scheduled power supply, deviating from ensuring consistent delivery. It seems the department repeatedly falls short of meeting consumer expectations and resorts to various excuses, the press release added.
While the KPDCL had announced the procurement of 400 MW of power from Uttar Pradesh and negotiations for an additional 150 MW from the central government to address the power shortage, progress has been minimal. The department has introduced a winter power curtailment schedule, even though it is still autumn, a period of lower power demand compared to winter.
In response to these challenges, the KCC&I is calling on the Lt Governor’s administration to take prompt action. The KCC&I is urging the administration to appoint a fact-finding committee to identify the issues causing distress to consumers, particularly senior citizens, the sick, students, health and education sectors, industries, tourism, industrial estates, stores, shopkeepers, and traders due to interrupted power supply in the approaching cold winter.
The KCC&I also highlighted the significant economic repercussions of power cuts on sectors like horticulture and CA stores, where substantial fruit stocks are stored. These power cuts may lead to fruit spoilage and substantial financial losses for growers and dealers.
