Srinagar | WTNS | March 05: In the midst of mounting power outages and distressing cuts, Kashmir is grappling with a severe electricity deficit, with the Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL) confirming a shortage of nearly 400 Megawatts (MWs). Frustrated consumers are voicing their discontent over frequent outages, questioning the efficacy of smart meters and cables when electricity is scarcely available for 4 to 5 hours a day.

Speaking to Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a top official of KPDCL acknowledged the significant power shortage in the region, stating, “As of now, sufficient power is not available with us. Currently, KPDCL is reeling under a shortage of electricity.”

The official revealed, “There is a shortage of nearly 300-400 Mega Watts. In view of the power shortage, there may be some areas in Kashmir that would be facing distress cuts and unscheduled outage.”

Efforts are underway to address the crisis, with KPDCL striving to streamline the supply and take steps to enhance the situation. A senior official expressed optimism that the power supply would improve ahead of the fasting month of Ramadhan, although specific details were not provided.

Meanwhile, the Power Development Department (PDD) assured consumers that it was actively working to resolve the power outage issues and revising the load curtailment program to minimize distressing power cuts. PDD Principal Secretary H Rajesh Prasad highlighted ongoing efforts to restrict losses in high-loss feeders due to power theft.

In response to concerns about unscheduled power cuts, Prasad stated, “We have even detected the losses in metered areas too, and I have issued strict actions to the concerned officials to look into this regard. Losses in metered areas are not acceptable at all.”