The biting cold of Kashmir’s winters is an annual challenge that its resilient population has learnt to endure. However, the persistent issue of unscheduled power cuts has turned this endurance into a relentless struggle. Despite assurances and curtailment schedules issued by the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited, erratic power supply remains a stark reality, causing widespread distress and disruption in the daily lives of residents. The current situation has exposed the inefficiency and lack of accountability in the power supply system. Residents across the Valley, from Srinagar to Baramulla and Budgam to Handwara, report similar grievances of unscheduled outages and voltage fluctuations. Metered as well as unmetered, both areas are facing huge power cuts, leaving residents in darkness and cold for extended periods.
The inadequacy of the power supply during the harsh winter months highlights systemic challenges. The prolonged dry summer, followed by an equally dry winter, has significantly lowered dam water levels, leading to a substantial decline in power generation compared to normal winter output. As a result, there is a severe shortfall in electricity supply. With the debt-ridden JKPDCL unable to purchase power, the public is unlikely to see any relief. The only immediate solution is for the UT Government to seek substantial assistance from the Central Government. However, this approach cannot be sustained indefinitely. The department’s assertion that power theft significantly contributes to the disruptions underscores the need for stringent measures to curb illegal practices. While inspections and actions against violators have been intensified, these steps appear insufficient to mitigate the widespread power woes. The UT Government must implement strict measures to curb power theft and ensure a weekly, exponential increase in revenue collection. Without establishing clear accountability, a lasting solution will remain elusive.
The impact of unscheduled power cuts extends far beyond inconvenience. For residents battling frigid temperatures, electricity is not just a utility; it is a lifeline. The absence of reliable power affects heating systems, disrupts water supply due to non-functional pumps, and forces people to resort to unsafe heating methods, increasing the risk of accidents and health hazards. Students preparing for exams find their studies interrupted, while businesses face losses due to operational disruptions. Families are left in a state of perpetual uncertainty, not knowing when power will be restored. This uncertainty is particularly hard on vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, and those with medical conditions requiring electrically powered equipment.
The Chief Minister’s directives to ensure adherence to curtailment schedules have seemingly little effect. This disconnect between policymaking and implementation reflects poorly on the administration’s ability to deliver on its commitments. Addressing the power crisis in Kashmir requires a multifaceted approach. The Government must expedite infrastructure upgrades, particularly in areas prone to frequent disruptions. Investing in advanced metering systems, insulated cables, and modern substations can significantly reduce transmission losses and improve reliability. The gap between revenue collection and the cost of power procurement is vast, and no corporation can survive solely on repeated Government support. Accountability must be established, and strict action should be taken to ensure staff responsibility. There are no quick fixes to the issue of power theft-consistent vigilance is essential. Existing electricity laws need to be enforced effectively at the grassroots level. Strengthening enforcement mechanisms and imposing penalties on offenders are crucial steps to deter illegal practices and ensure compliance.
While the onus lies largely on the Government and power authorities, citizens also have a role to play in alleviating the crisis. Judicious electricity use, especially during peak hours, can help balance demand and supply. Avoiding high-power-consuming appliances and adopting energy-efficient practices are small but significant steps that can collectively make a difference. Only serious efforts can mitigate present crisis. The Government’s commitment to ensuring a 24×7 power supply must be backed by actionable steps, robust planning, and equitable resource distribution.
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