Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) is in the process of implementing LT network and smart metering projects to bring about a complete turnaround in the power sector under the flagship Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) of Government of India with ultimate goal of providing uninterrupted and affordable power supply to its consumers. The other day, a KPDCL spokesman revealed that all 13 packages related to loss reduction works are in progress in 10 districts of Kashmir Division under which DT substations and LT-AB cables are being laid. The spokesman claimed that in order to check power pilferage and bring down losses in unmetered flat-rate areas, Kashmir DISCOM is conducting calibrated load rationalization, based on actual electricity usage by the domestic consumers and that strict directions have been given to all Electric Subdivisions to carry out door-to-door inspections, focusing particularly on high value consumers, whose agreemented load is significantly lower that actual consumption. The spokesman has urged consumers to facilitate the executing agencies in laying of new distribution infrastructure and upgradation of existing infrastructure in a hassle-free manner.
The statement was issued following the reports that the manpower of the executing agencies has been physically assaulted for laying of LT-AB cable and removal of bare conductor. While people in Kashmir are genuinely upset with the electric power scenario of the Valley but assaulting the workers who are there for laying cables to help better the power supply is unwarranted and condemnable. We have all along been criticising the administration for failing to ensure smooth power supply to the consumers. It has and continues to be a chronic issue that confronts people here particularly during winters. In chilly winters, people have to suffer because of absence of electric power. But the point is that how can electric supply improve if the concerned authorities are not allowed to take the necessary steps to check power pilferage and bring down losses. Much has been written and said about transmission loses which result into poor power supply. Now that the administration has woken up, people should cooperate and help it to take all necessary steps.
On its part, the concerned authorities should do anything and everything to ensure that consumers are not on a receiving end. These authorities should be mindful of the fact during winters, people in most of villages get electricity supply for eight to ten hours only. People suffer and this suffering turns into anger. While any kind of physical assault should be condemned, the authorities should have a proper communication with consumers and make them aware about the fresh initiatives.
