Jammu: Minister for Power Development Department (PDD) Ali Mohammad Sagar on Saturday directed officials to complete ongoing grid augmentation and transformer replacement works across Jammu city and adjoining areas within six months.
During a tour of major grid stations at Gladni, Canal Road and Janipur, the Minister reviewed the existing transmission infrastructure, ongoing works and arrangements to meet the growing domestic, commercial and industrial power demand.
At Gladni Grid Station, which supplies a major portion of Jammu city, Sagar was informed that the facility has a transformation capacity of 200 MVA through four 50 MVA transformers operating at 132/33 kV.
An additional capacity of 80 MVA is under execution and is expected to be commissioned within six months. The augmentation is aimed at improving power supply to Gandhi Nagar, Channi Himmat, Bathindi and adjoining areas.
At Canal Road Grid Station, the existing capacity of around 120 MVA is proposed to be increased to 150 MVA to cater to the growing demand in Jewel Chowk, Subash Nagar, Canal Road, Satwari, cantonment areas and adjoining localities up to Talab Tillo. The requirement of an additional load of around 30 MW was also discussed.
At Janipur Grid Station, which has an existing transformation capacity of 150 MVA, the Minister reviewed plans for adding 80 MVA capacity and replacing an existing 50 MVA transformer. These works have also been targeted for completion within six months.
The Minister also called for a comprehensive assessment of power requirements in Bari Brahmana, Sidra, Jagti, Akhnoor and Kalakote, with particular focus on the expanding industrial base of Bari Brahmana.
He directed officials to remove bottlenecks affecting project execution, replace ageing equipment, maintain adequate emergency backup arrangements and closely monitor the progress of ongoing works.
Sagar also sought an area-wise progress report detailing existing transformation capacity, additional capacity under creation, the status of ongoing works and commissioning timelines for regular monitoring.
During the visit, delegations and local representatives from different areas also raised issues related to electricity supply and other public amenities. The Minister assured them that their concerns would be taken up with the concerned departments.
Managing Director Jammu Power Transmission Corporation Limited (JPTCL) Habib Choudhary, Chief Engineers and other senior departmental officers accompanied the Minister.
