SRINAGAR: Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Ltd. (KPDCL) today informed the successful and complete restoration of the power supply network across the Kashmir Valley following a severe spell of gusty winds and heavy snowfall that caused widespread damage to electrical infrastructure.
A statement issued by the Corporation said that the adverse weather conditions resulted in extensive damage to HT/LT networks, Distribution Transformers (DTs), and sub-transmission lines. In several areas, rooftops smashed against overhead lines, further aggravating the damage and disrupting electricity supply.
“Despite all odds, KPDCL achieved restoration in a time-bound manner through coordinated, round-the-clock field operations and continuous monitoring. All 33 kV networks, covering 135 out of 135 feeders and 333 receiving stations have been fully restored and charged,” said the statement.
Additionally, nearly 95 percent of the 11 kV distribution network (1240 out of 1307 feeders) has been energized.
“Further, power supply to severely damaged networks has been temporarily restored and permanent restoration by way of stabilizing the network shall follow. Few 11kV left out feeders in the difficult terrains of Keran, Machil, Tangdar etc. are under restoration and shall be charged at an earliest,” the statement said.
Overall, power supply has largely normalized across the Kashmir Valley, with recording of peak load above 1600 MW by SLDC, it said.
The statement further said that in view of meteorological forecasts predicting another spell of snowfall, KPDCL has further strengthened its preparedness by mobilizing rejuvenated manpower and machinery. KPDCL remains fully committed to maintaining uninterrupted power supply, with its swift restoration mechanism, comprising alert workforce teams and a robust monitoring setup on standby to respond promptly at all levels.
However, reports from the ground are contrary.
Kashmir Images decided to a sample study of KPDCL claim from the very area where Chief Minister was himself present today skiing, yes, Gulmarg.
So many villages in the area are still groping in dark, no restoration. And such stories are also coming in from north, south and centre.
“We know that the concerned department has no workforce and wherewithal, let it admit it. Don’t feed lies to save your chairs,” said a college teacher from a remote village of Beerwa, who wanted to hide his identity for obvious reasons.
“ I had to borrow money from some friend and bought a generator for Rs 35000 to ensure that water is lifted to tanks at my home in Chack Ferozpora, Tangmarg. We can manage cold, darkness but how can we live without the basic necessity – water,” said Asif, a resident of Chack Ferozpora.
KPDCL will have to answer to these questions, sooner the better.
