The Kashmir Pulse

BARAMULLA — Unknown burglars stole a 250kV power transformer from Tarzoo Sopore area in Baramulla district last night, according to eyewitnesses.

The witnesses said that the internal structure, wiring, and fuel of the transformer were removed, leaving only the outer shell.

The transformer supplied electricity to about 35 households in the area.

Tariq Ahmed, a lineman in the area, said that locals are experiencing issues due to the theft of the transformer, which supplied power to many houses.

Police have started an investigation, and efforts are underway to restore power to the affected households.

SRINAGAR — In a major relief for power consumers, the Jammu & Kashmir Power Development Department (JKPDD) announced today that the J&K Government will absorb any increase in electricity tariffs for the financial year 2024-25 by continuing its subsidy on electricity bills.

This decision effectively offsets projected tariff hikes by the Distribution Companies (discoms)—JPDCL for the Jammu region and KPDCL for the Kashmir region—meant to cover rising power purchase costs, inflation, and other factors. The government’s move, it said, will bridge the revenue gap without passing the additional costs to consumers.

A PDD spokesperson highlighted that a major portion of discoms' expenditure comprises power purchase costs, which are escalating due to rising coal prices. Other significant expenditures include operation and maintenance costs for expanding infrastructure. Without government intervention, these costs would have been passed on to consumers.

The discoms have submitted a proposal for a tariff increase for FY 2024-25 to the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) for approval. However, the government’s decision ensures no tariff increase for consumers, with the estimated loss covered by the government.

Currently, Jammu & Kashmir's electricity tariff is among the lowest in the country. After a six-year hiatus, there was a 17% tariff increase in October 2022. For FY 2023-24, metered consumers faced a 15% hike, balanced by the removal of a 15% Electricity Duty on energy charges, resulting in no net rise in bills. This trend continues for FY 2024-25 with no tariff increase.

In addition to easing financial burdens, the department is implementing reforms under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to ensure better quality and reliable power supply. These reforms include the rapid implementation of smart meters to eliminate unmetered consumers, who contribute significantly to high AT&C losses. J&K, which had a metering percentage of 50% in 2019, now ranks among the top seven states for smart metering, surpassing the six lakh mark.

To address losses in unmetered areas, particularly in Kashmir, discoms are conducting calibrated load rationalization based on actual usage and connected loads, adhering to Electricity Supply Code regulations. Other reforms include 100% segregation of agricultural feeders, High Voltage Distribution Systems (HVDS), and state-of-the-art SCADA and RT-DAS systems, aiming to automate the system and meet modern consumer expectations.

Discoms have been directed to adopt best practices in accordance with the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, ensuring reliable and high-quality electricity services. With a Rs. 5,600 crore investment under RDSS over the next two years, the UT aims for a complete turnaround in the power sector, with the goal of providing 24x7 uninterrupted and affordable power supply for all consumers.

PULWAMA — A young man, who was the father of two small kids, died today after he got electrocuted with a low-hanging high-tension (HT) electric line in Pulwama district.

Abul Hameed Reshi, a 38-year-old man, died today at Mirbagh locality in Ratnipora village of Pulwama district when he came in touch with a low-hanging high-tension power line. Hameed, son of late Ghulam Hassan Reshi, was working as a driver.

Locals said he was working at his orchard in Mirbagh when his tube well pipe came in touch with a low-lying HT power line. He was rushed to Kakapora health centre where he was declared dead.

Locals alleged that the incident occurred due to negligence of the Power Development Department (now called KPDCL) as they had kept a low-hanging HT line for the electricity supply to Mirbagh.

Locals said that despite repeated requests to the PDD authorities to maintain a proper height of the HT line, they didn't bother to elevate its height.

"Had the PDD acted on time by elevating the HT line to an acceptable height, the incident could have been averted," the locals rued.

JAMMU — Managing Director JPDCL, Vikas Kundal on Wednesday issued a public notice in which the curtailment schedule has been withdrawn with immediate effect.

The public notice issued by the MD JPDCL reads, “In view of the improvement in power infrastructure by way of capacity addition and repair of 2x50MVA, 132/66KV power transformer at Grid Station Samba and 10MVA, 33/11kV power transformer at Miran Sahib, the curtailment schedule for summer 2024, issued by Chief Engineer (Distribution) JPDCL vide No: CEJ/TS-II/906-20 dated: 27-05-2024, stands withdrawn."

"JPDCL will provide 24x7 power supply in smart metered areas and up to 20 hours power supply in other areas. However, JPDCL will have to resort to distressed curtailments in order to safeguard the critical power infrastructure as and when required," the notice said.

It also requested the general public to exercise prudence in electricity usage due to the soaring demand for electricity driven by the unprecedented rise in temperatures and the severe heat wave. "The public is further advised to pay their electricity dues in time through online/offline mode."

The Managing Director JPDCL also visited the State Load Dispatch Corporation office and reviewed the availability of power for the Jammu region and said that with the purchase of an additional 200 MW of power, JPDCL shall be able to supply smooth and uninterrupted power to the smart metered areas and also provide relief to the rural areas by reducing the curtailment hours.

He was accompanied by Chief Engineer Distribution Manhar Gupta, Chief Engineer System and Operations Rajan Gupta, Executive Engineer IT&C Anil Verma and Executive Engineer, ED-II Ashok Chibber among others.

MD JPDCL issued on-the-spot orders that maintenance and repair works should be planned in such a manner that there should be no inconvenience to the general public and there should be no long-hour outages even in rural areas. He also issued instructions that no shutdowns should be allowed in the peak summer season.

During the visit, it was informed that 160 MVA, 220/132 KV auto-transformer at Gladni grid has also been brought into the circuit by JKPTCL today and the transformer is now running in parallel with 400 MVA auto-transformer bank. This will help in reducing the infrastructure challenges for JPDCL and issues of forced curtailment due to temperature rise of transformer shall subside with this step.

The Managing Director Vikas Kundal exhorted the staff to come down heavily on the illegal hooking and conduct regular inspections to provide relief to honest consumers. He reviewed the SCADA system installed at Gladni grid and complimented the fact that such technological advancements are being used to monitor and control systems at the parent grid which feeds power to maximum areas of Jammu region.

SRINAGAR — Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has warned its consumers to desist from illegal power usage, failing which permanent disconnections with the recovery of the unaccounted energy consumed shall be effected including registration of FIRs, under the Electricity Act.

KPDCL has also started serving notices to the consumers found using power illegally by way of hooking and meter bypassing, with copies sent to the concerned Police Station for registration of FIRs.

In a statement released today, a KPDCL spokesman said inspection squads are vigorously patrolling on a roster basis and mapping all those consumers found hooking on bare conductors, meter tampering and bypassing and exceeding sanctioned load in flat-rated areas.

“In order to thwart attempts of large-scale power pilferage, inspection squads have been manning all sections at sub-division level to prevent consumers from using power illegally,” he stated.

The spokesman added that over 1.90 lakh inspection and disconnection drives have been conducted by KPDCL field staff over the last six months and a large number of consumers have been caught using power unauthorisedly.

“Against recovery on account of energy consumed illegally worth Rs. 27.74 crore, Rs. 11.04 crore have been realised,” he said, adding that non-payment of dues on account of illegal use of energy is being reflected in the power bills against those consumers who have failed to deposit.

KPDCL further stated that FIRs are being registered and more applications are being moved with names and consumer IDs of such consumers caught either hooking or bypassing/tampering meters.

Highlighting the role of the centralised and fully autonomous central inspection squad of the KPDCL, the spokesman stated that as many as 4,110 inspections have been conducted over the past six months and large number of meter tampering cases have been detected.

“82 confirmed cases of meter tampering have been reported for registration of FIRs under the Electricity Act by CIS,” he said and added that all these consumers will be remotely disconnected permanently.

Laying stress on the revision of sanctioned load in flat-rated areas till these are smart-metered under the premier Loss Reduction Scheme of RDSS, the spokesman said the load of the consumers is being enhanced in a calibrated manner, in an attempt to bring down AT&C losses.

He further stated that a large number of consumers are far exceeding their sanctioned loads, sometimes even by 4-5 times, which is adversely affecting the billing efficiency of KPDCL.

The KPDCL spokesman further advised its consumers to use electricity judiciously, which shall go a long way in providing reliable and quality power supply to all its consumers. He also urged the domestic consumers to avail the waiver on late payment surcharge under the government’s Power Amnesty Scheme which shall remain in force till March 31, 2025.

SRINAGAR — With the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan, Kashmir valley continues to face unscheduled power curtailments and distress cuts—leaving the consumers to reel under darkness, especially at Suhoor and fast-breaking (Iftar) time.

Locals from almost all districts of Kashmir region informed the news agency KNO that the power scenario has worsened over the past four days.

One of the locals of southern Kashmir’s Pulwama area, Razaq Ahmad, said, “Despite being a local of a smart metered area, the power is playing hide and seek with us.”

“At the time of installing smart meters, we were promised an uninterrupted power supply. All I can see is a fake promise by the Power Development Department,” he said.

Ahmad said that the people of his area continue to reel under darkness. “The irony is that we are not even being provided electricity, especially at Suhoor and Iftar time.”

Similarly, the residents of Qazigund area narrated the same ordeal. One of the locals of Qazigund, Rashid Ahmad Khan, said that he has never witnessed such a bad scenario of power in Ramadan.

The 45-year-old Khan said, “This is the worst ever power scenario in my area. I request the Lieutenant Government administration to intervene in this matter and resolve the matter at the earliest.”

In the meantime, we received many such calls from the electricity consumers of Srinagar and northern Kashmir’s Baramulla, Bandipora and Kupwara districts. Besides, the electricity consumers of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal and Budgam districts expressed antipathy against the authorities for failing to provide uninterrupted electricity.

Inhabitants of several villages of Kangan area in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district also expressed resentment against the PDD for failing to provide adequate electricity to them, especially in the holy month of Ramadan.

The residents of the areas said that they were not getting electricity as per the schedule and were facing tremendous hardships, especially during Sehri and Iftar times.

The locals from Prang, Kangan, Akhal, Anderwan, Haripora, Wussan, Chattergul, Kachnabal, Najwan, Wayil, Nunner and main town Ganderbal said they were receiving electricity for a maximum of two to four hours a day.

The locals of Kashmir Valley appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir administration to resolve the matter at the earliest.

A top official of KPDCL said that it has provided a smooth power supply across the Kashmir Division. “There are some local issues and snags which are taken care of.”

On asking about the unscheduled power cuts and change in power curtailment in the month of Ramadan, the official said, “Consumers have a habit of generalizing things. The majority of the faults in 11 KV feeders is due to system overloads and massive misuse of electricity by exceeding sanctioned load in non-metered areas.”

The official said that the rural belt was almost all flat-rated. It also said that because of DT outages due to excessive overload, some feeders were under fault due to overnight rains and snow in certain areas.

Meanwhile, Principal Secretary Power Development Department H Rajesh Prasad said, “Our power supply position remains the same.”

On asking about any change in the power curtailment schedule in the month of Ramadan, the Principal Secretary said that there was no change in it. “We have not taken any decision in this regard and as of now there is no change in the power curtailment schedule.”

Pertinently, earlier this week, Chief Engineer KPDCL (Distribution) Sandeep Seth said that it was charting out the plan and mechanism to resolve the power curtailment issues for the month of Ramadan.

“We are working on it and most likely, the new curtailment schedule will be implemented from the first day of Ramadan,” he said.

SRINAGAR — The Power Development Department is mulling to improve the power curtailment schedule in the holy month of Ramadan.

Besides, the department said that it will improve and reduce the power curtailment, especially at Suhoor and fast breaking time (Iftar).

Speaking to the news agency KNO, Chief Engineer KPDCL (Distribution) Sandeep Seth said that it was charting out the plan and mechanism to resolve the power curtailment issues for the month of Ramadan.

“We are working on it and most likely, the new curtailment schedule will be implemented from the first day of Ramadan,” he said.

On asking about improving power curtailment at peak hours, the Chief Engineer said, “In the month of Ramadan, the peak hours will be pre-dawn and dusk. We are mulling to improve the power curtailment, especially at Sahoor and Iftar.”

Pertinently, the holy Ramadan is likely to commence on Tuesday.

In the last week of February, amid frequent power outages and distress cuts across Kashmir valley, Kashmir Power Developed Corporation Limited (KPDCL) had said that it was facing a power shortage of nearly 400 Megawatts (MWs).

An official of KPDCL had said, “As of now, sufficient power is not available with us. Currently, KPDCL is reeling under a shortage of electricity.”

The official said, “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.”

SRINAGAR — Residents of many areas in Kashmir on Saturday expressed resentment against the unscheduled outages in ‘metered and non-metered’ areas.

Consumers from different areas of Kashmir division expressed antipathy against the claims of the Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL). The locals of several areas of Srinagar said that they were facing the worst electricity crisis.

One of the locals, Naseer Ahmad of Batamaloo, said, “Currently, we are facing more than 10 to 12 hours of curtailment in smart metered areas and more than 15-hour curtailment for non-metered areas.”

Ahmad said, “Besides the long curtailments, unscheduled power cuts are adding fuel to the fire.”

Similarly, the residents of Jawahar Nagar, Chattabal, Tengpora, Mominabad, and Karanagar expressed the same issues. “The pesky unscheduled power cuts are making our lives miserable.”

The residents of Pulwama, Qazigund, Ganderbal and subdivision Kangan areas informed that the concerned authorities have failed to implement their directives on the ground. “It seems that the KPDCL orders and directives pertaining to the supply of power and uninterrupted service remain confined to papers and offices only.”

A resident of Pulwama, Zahid Ahmad, said, “Irony is that the consumers even after paying the bills on time are being forced to reel under darkness. Frequent snapping of power against the scheduled power curtailment, especially in morning and evening hours, have jeopardized the living in rural areas.”

On Friday, the residents of Zafran Colony in Pantha Chowk area of Srinagar expressed their resentment against the DISCOM for resorting to unscheduled and irritating long power cuts in the area, stating that they pay electricity bills well in time.

KPDCL Chief Engineer (Distribution) Sandeep Seth and Managing Director Mussarat Islam were not available to comment on the issue.

SRINAGAR — Residents of Kashmir Valley find themselves grappling with dual challenges as they face exorbitant power bills and frequent outages during Fajar (pre-dawn) prayers, highlighting the struggles endured by both the economically disadvantaged and devout communities.

Under the oppressive weight of inflated power bills, locals accuse the Kashmir Power Distribution Company Limited (KPDCL) of exploiting the economically vulnerable. Complaints flood in from across the region, with residents alleging that the KPDCL has left no stone unturned in squeezing their already strained finances.

Despite assertions from KPDCL officials regarding a redress mechanism, consumers report a lack of responsiveness to their grievances, leaving them feeling helpless and frustrated.

"My monthly income is over Rs 10,000, and I have six family members to support. Yet, I received a power bill of Rs 7,400 last month. Tell me, where am I supposed to find this money?" lamented a resident from the Chanapora area of Srinagar.

Protests against KPDCL's exploitative practices have erupted, with locals likening the company's behavior to that of the East India Company. Yet, pleas for relief have fallen on deaf ears in the absence of an elected government, leaving residents without access to avenues for recourse.

Adding to the woes, the failure of the KPDCL to ensure uninterrupted power supply during Fajar prayers has become a new norm, drawing widespread frustration and anguish from the faithful. Reports indicate that power outages, particularly during the pre-dawn hours, have become routine, disrupting the sacred ritual of offering prayers in the dark.

"For the past month, as soon as the call for prayers is given from our local mosque, electricity disappears. Despite raising the issue with concerned officials, nothing has changed," expressed Abdul Rehman from Batamalo area.

The plight of residents is further exacerbated by lengthy power cuts, prompting concerns about the KPDCL's commitment to delivering quality service.

JAMMU — In a move to tackle the persistent power shortage in government buildings, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has decided to make it mandatory for all its departments to install solar power panels.

This initiative as per the government sources has been taken to address the mounting expenditure on power dues incurred by various government departments.

The directive comes following a detailed communication issued by the Director of Planning in the Public Works Department to all government offices across the Union Territory. The communication outlines specific requirements, urging departments to provide essential details to facilitate the smooth implementation of the solar power initiative.

As per the news agency KNO, government offices are required to furnish information regarding the amount of available space without any shading, specify whether the office operates in a rented or government-owned building, and detail the monthly expenses incurred on power bills. This comprehensive data will aid in customizing solar solutions that align with the unique requirements of each department.

A source within the government, speaking on the condition of anonymity, emphasized the urgency of such a measure. "The decision to make solar panels mandatory in government buildings is a proactive step towards reducing the burgeoning expenses on power bills. Many government offices, both in rented and owned buildings, consume a substantial amount of electricity. By harnessing solar power, not only will we contribute to a cleaner environment, but we will also significantly alleviate the financial burden on the state exchequer."

The move is particularly timely considering the increasing demand for electricity and the associated costs incurred by government departments. Solar panels not only offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative but also provide a long-term solution to the perennial issue of power paucity.

A government official involved in the decision-making process commented, “The decision to mandate solar panels in government buildings is a visionary move by the administration. By tapping into solar energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also fostering fiscal responsibility. The cumulative impact of this initiative will be felt not only in terms of cost savings but also in promoting cleaner and greener practices within government infrastructure.”

“It is expected that this directive will pave the way for a substantial reduction in electricity bills for government offices, resulting in considerable savings for the state. The holistic approach to gathering specific information from each department reflects the government's commitment to tailoring sustainable energy solutions to the unique needs of different government offices,” says a senior government official.

As the Union Territory gears up to embrace solar energy on a larger scale, this initiative marks a significant stride towards a more energy-efficient and environmentally conscious government. With the potential to set an example for other regions, Jammu and Kashmir's move towards solar power integration is a noteworthy step in the quest for a sustainable and cost-effective future.

SRINAGAR — In a significant move, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) issued an order on Wednesday prohibiting the procurement and sale of heating gadgets based on nichrome coils.

The KPDCL, through an official communication, urgently directed its subordinate offices to reconsider a previous order that had banned the production, import, transportation, sale, purchase, or use of crude heaters, boilers, and steamers relying on nichrome coil technology.

The ban comes into effect due to observed non-compliance with the required specifications outlined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or the International Electro-Technical Commission. The KPDCL stated, "In consonance with the above orders, all Electric Divisions have done a remarkable job in seizing these crude heating appliances from a vast majority of the consumers."

The communication expressed concern over the post-seizure behaviour of consumers who reportedly purchase new nichrome coil-based crude gadgets from the market, undermining the efforts made in confiscating the non-compliant devices.

To permanently eradicate the availability of such heating gadgets, the directive instructs the implementation of the Government Order by circulating it among business outlets dealing in electrical equipment/items. These outlets are to be advised against procuring and selling any nichrome coil-based heating gadgets, with non-compliance leading to immediate seizure.

The KPDCL further advised the subordinate offices to collaborate with the District Administration to ensure the strict enforcement of the government orders. This initiative aims to curb the abuse of electricity associated with the use of non-compliant heating appliances. The corporation emphasized the importance of collective efforts to permanently remove nichrome coil-based heaters, boilers, and steamers from the market.

PULWAMA — Residents of several areas in south Kashmir are up against the Power Development Department (PDD) for hiking their power tariffs every month and have demanded reconsideration of the decision.

Ab Rashid, a resident of the Litter area, told the news agency KNO that the authorities have inflated bills after enhancing consumption load without carrying out any survey.

According to him, some consumers have experienced a substantial increase of Rs 1050 to 1300 per month.

“Unscheduled power cuts are taking a heavy toll on us and on the other hand, the PDD is increasing our electricity bills,” said Subzar Ahmad, a resident of Shopian.

He said that the residents of the area were shocked after receiving their bill wherein both the load agreement and bill amount had been increased without obtaining consent from the consumers.

He said people living in villages are financially weak and this will put more burden on them.

Ab Hamid, another consumer from Anantnag, said that in the last year or two, the government has increased tariffs at least 4-5 times and the government must think of poor people before making such a decision.

He said that there must be separate rates for APL and BPL ration card holders and separate schemes must be devised for the same.

The residents appealed to PDD that they should revisit their decision so that people won't have to suffer.

PULWAMA — Residents of Eid Gah Colony area of Gudoora in Pulwama district are up against the Power Development Department (PDD) for its failure to upgrade power infrastructure in the area.

The residents told the news agency KNO that an electric transformer was installed in Eid Gah Mohalla some 15 years ago and since then population of the area has increased but the power infrastructure hasn't been upgraded.

They said the neighbourhood is spread over 1.5 km with around 40 households and a single transformer isn't enough to cater for the whole Mohalla. They added that authorities were resorting to frequent hikes in power bills which has added to the misery of the people.

“Despite increasing the monthly tariff, the lines are still connected through trees in the area,” Ishfaq Ahmad, a resident, said. He said there is a need for poles and transformers in the area so that they can get scheduled power with good voltage.

Locals said that the residents who are living far away from the transformer are getting supplied with very low voltage. They said these issues were brought to the notice of higher-ups several times but to no avail.

They requested higher-ups to look into the matter at the earliest so that they could heave a sigh of relief.

Meanwhile, a local DDC member Ab Aziz, while acknowledging the problems of the area, said that this area will be covered in the coming fiscal year.

SRINAGAR — PDP General Secretary, Gulam Nabi Lone Hanjura on Friday expressed concern over the substantial increase in electricity tariffs in Kashmir valley in recent months. He said that even below the poverty line (BPL) consumers, who previously received benefits, are now burdened by escalated fees since the Lieutenant Governor's rule.

During a press conference in Srinagar, Hanjura stated, "It seems that a 40% hike has been recorded in electricity bills as the flat rate, which was 900, is being increased to 1300, which is very high."

He noted that impoverished consumers are now charged a flat rate of 1300 per month, equivalent to wealthier consumers. However, the crucial distinction lies in the fact that poorer households, often using just a single electric bulb, are compelled to pay the same amount.

Hanjura pointed out, "Earlier, the government admitted that they didn't increase the fees, but seeing electricity bills, it clearly indicates that it is increasing, even the load has been increased from time to time in metered and non-metered areas."

He expressed disappointment in the current government, emphasizing that past administrations, regardless of party affiliation, had prioritized the welfare of poor citizens in such matters.

He criticized the present government for allegedly neglecting the well-being of the people, stating, "The present government left no stone behind in harassing the people here. Amid this rising trend, where will poor people go?"

Adding to the concerns, Hanjura highlighted the lease of the Ratle Hydroelectric Plant to outside states for a 40-year duration. He deemed this move unfortunate, especially considering the existing power crisis in Jammu and Kashmir.

Questioning the decision to export electricity when residents don't have access to a continuous 24-hour supply, Hanjura called for a reconsideration of such policies, saying, "Even the Ratle Hydroelectric Plant has been given to outside states for 40 years, which is an unfortunate thing."

KULGAM — A conductor of a truck from Kulgam died while its driver was injured due to electrocution in Ahmedabad area of Gujarat on Friday, officials said.

An official told the news agency KNO that the driver and conductor were loading a truck when they came in contact with a live wire in Ahmedabad.

He said that the conductor died on the spot while the driver suffered critical injuries, who was admitted to a hospital.

The deceased has been identified as Mudasir Ahmad Parray son of Abdul Qayoom Parray, and the injured as Muneeb Hamid Parray son of Abdul Hamid Parray.

SRINAGAR — Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah on Wednesday expressed strong opposition to the power project agreement with Rajasthan, denouncing it as a “loot” of the region.

As per the news agency KNO, speaking at a press conference held at the party headquarters here, Omar voiced his concerns regarding the power project being handed over to Rajasthan for a 40-year period. He said such an arrangement, where the generation from hydroelectric power projects is directed to another region, will not be tolerated.

“While we are chosen first for the installation of smart meters, our hydroelectric power projects’ generation is directed to Rajasthan. We will not permit this, even if it requires taking the issue to the Supreme Court,” Abdullah declared.

The NC vice president said that for the first time, he is witnessing an electric power agreement spanning 40 years. “Once assembly elections are conducted here, we will ensure that the electric power project remains within Jammu & Kashmir,” he added.

Omar also addressed the review petition filed in the Supreme Court regarding the Article 370 verdict, saying that discussions on aligning with the petitioners would be deliberated upon.

Expressing disappointment, he highlighted the government's reluctance to hold elections in Jammu & Kashmir and expressed disappointment that the Supreme Court had to intervene in the matter.

“It is unfortunate that the Supreme Court had to intervene in the assembly polls in J&K. The Election Commission of India must feel ashamed of it,” he remarked.

Responding to queries about attending the inauguration of the Ram temple, the former CM said his name was not on the list of invitees. “My name is not on that list. Where is the question of my choice to attend the inauguration?” he asked.

Regarding the possibility of his candidacy in the Parliamentary elections, Omar clarified that no discussions had taken place yet, and the party leadership would deliberate on fielding the best candidate for Parliamentary elections from J&K. “For me, (NC chief and his father) Farooq Abdullah contests first,” he asserted.

Addressing the Maldives row, Omar criticised some Maldivian ministers for their inappropriate remarks against the Indian Prime Minister, terming their statements as wrong.

SRINAGAR — Managing Director, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), Mussarat Islam, today urged consumers to clear their outstanding balance on account of electricity dues, failing which KPDCL shall be left with no option but to further accelerate its disconnection drives as warranted under Section 56 of the Electricity Act.

He further stated that smart meter consumers with arrears are being automatically disconnected if they do not pay their pending power bills.

Expressing serious concern over huge default figures in domestic, commercial and industrial categories, the MD stated that revenue realized on account of clearance of pending bills shall enable KPDCL to have enough resource availability for power purchase which will be critical for providing reliable supply.

The MD also said that huge default figures are taking a toll on the financial health of the Corporation as it would impact the fund flow under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), which is aimed at transforming the LT Distribution Network in Kashmir Division.

Seeking the cooperation of all consumers in clearing dues, the MD further stated that keeping in view the compulsion for the realization of arrears, KPDCL has passed directions to all 19 Electric Divisions to further accelerate disconnection drives of defaulter consumers who are reluctant to pay their energy dues on time.

PULWAMA — In an unfortunate incident in Puchal area, located in south Kashmir's Pulwama district, a woman tragically succumbed to electrocution on Thursday.

Authorities, as per reports from a local news agency, confirmed the incident, identifying the victim as Tahira Akhter, the wife of Mohammad Shafi Dar, a resident of Puchal. Reportedly, Tahira Akhter suffered an accidental electric shock, resulting in severe burns on her head.

Efforts were made to rush her for immediate medical attention, and she was promptly taken to the District Hospital in Pulwama for treatment. However, medical professionals at the hospital declared her deceased upon arrival.

In response to the tragic occurrence, local law enforcement swiftly initiated an investigation into the incident. The police have taken cognizance of the case and have begun inquiries to determine the circumstances leading to the fatal electrocution.

SRINAGAR — To improve the situation of power in the valley, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has intensified its drive against illegal power consumption across Kashmir.

As per the data accessed by the news agency KNO, the KPDCL last month conducted 14,893 inspections all over the valley, during which a fine of Rs 1.80 crore was imposed on consumers for power thefts and bypassing of meters.

During these drives, 995 illegal connections were regularized while a load of 2.9 MW was subsequently added. These drives have been launched by the department following frequent power outages and distress cuts.

An official of KPDCL said that the crackdown against illegal power consumption was currently going on throughout the valley. “Our teams are conducting night inspections and we have been able to recover a huge quantity of crude heating devices and wires. This month, the drive is in full swing and it will continue throughout winter so that people shun illegal consumption of electricity,” he said.

“This initiative aims to crack down on unauthorized power connections and meter tampering, which not only pose a significant financial burden on the department but also hinder the provision of reliable electricity to legitimate consumers,” the official said.

Meanwhile, the KPDCL is using its social media handles to highlight the quantum of power thefts going on within the valley.

Photographs and videos of the KPDCL squads conducting raids in several parts of the Kashmir valley to check illegal hooking or use of boilers and heaters are viral on social media this winter. The squads can mostly be seen seizing boilers and heaters that are being used after the onset of winter in Kashmir.

Apart from inspection, the KPDCL has decided to launch an awareness campaign regarding the judicious use of electricity. In this campaign, they have decided to rope in clerics, scholars and civil society so that the power situation improves in the valley.

Principal Secretary, Power Development Department, H Rajesh Prasad earlier said that they will rope in representatives from various sections of the society to disseminate the message of judicious use of electricity to the public.

“We will take support of all those persons who have a social concern and reputation among the public. We will use religious clerics, scholars and civil society to propagate the judicious use of electricity,” he had said.

‘22 receiving sub-stations with 11 KV outgoing feeders will have no power curtailment’

Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited on Thursday said that there will be no curtailment for at least 22 receiving substations with 11 KV outgoing feeders.

According to the news agency KNO, Chief Engineer Distribution for KPDCL in a communique said, “To incentivise the consumers with Smart Metering and feeders with low Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses, there shall be no curtailment affected on 22 receiving substation of 11 KV outgoing feeders in the first instance.”

The CE said that the concerned Assistant Executive Engineer shall carry out intensive inspections of these feeders. “In case of reduction in billing efficiency and increase in AT&C losses, these 22 feeders will be treated as normal metered feeders,” it reads.

The 22 outgoing feeders include Papchan, Nishat, Achabal, Chee Panthidpora, Prakhaspora, Malaknag, Iqbalabad, Verinag, Sangam Colony (New Feeder), Alamdar Colony, Wanbal, Hamdania Colony, Rajbagh Zero Bridge, Gulberg Colony, 90ft Soura, Indra Nagar, Zakura Crossing, Jan Mohalla, Main Lalbazar, Botshah Mohallah, Deewan Colony Shalimar, Gulab Bagh, Ellahibagh and Saloora.

As already reported, the Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) loss of Power Development Department in Jammu and Kashmir is one of the highest in India—causing a gap between power purchase costs.

Currently, the AT&C losses are of the order of 50 per cent against the national average of 19.73 per cent.

SRINAGAR — In an attempt to combat large-scale power pilferage and improve bill deposits by defaulting consumers, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) conducted a whopping 10,465 inspections and disconnected over 11,000 consumers in the last 10 days of November 2023.

KPDCL also realized a revenue of Rs 85.24 crore, including power receipts, in the same period, with the highest remittances of Rs 16.42 crore recorded on November 28 alone.

Sharing details, a KPDCL spokesperson confirmed rampant hooking of lines on the bare conductors in metered areas and exceeding energy use beyond the agreed load by flat-rated consumers across Kashmir Division.

“During inspection overdrive, a penalty of Rs. 1.03 crore was imposed on consumers found involved in power theft across all 6 O&M Circles in the last 10 days of November. As many as 995 connections were regularised and 2120 KW load added,” the spokesman said.

O&M Circle Ganderbal conducted the highest number of 2,945 inspections, followed by Circle Spore with 2,048, Circle II Srinagar with 1,950, Pulwama with 1,528, Bijbehara with 1,004 and Circle I Srinagar with 990.

Crediting KPDCL patrolling teams for moving out in sub-zero temperatures to expose power pilferage, the spokesman shared details of 11,238 consumers disconnected in the last 10 days of November, who had pending energy dues exceeding three months. This included 7,828 domestic, 2,979 commercial and 346 industrial consumers.

The spokesperson assured the consumers of strict adherence to the power curtailment schedule following the additional allocation of power to UT of Jammu & Kashmir by the Central Government.

Emphasizing judicious use of power, KPDCL spokesperson also warned consumers to avoid hooking, bypassing of meters and exceeding overload, failing which KPDCL will file criminal charges under relevant provisions of the Electricity Act.

“We will soon start sharing details of consumers who have pending energy dues in lakhs towards the organisation. We will also expose hookers who have the temerity to openly use power unauthorisedly,” he said, adding that FIRs will be lodged against those persons who physically assault KPDCL staff for performing official duties.

The spokesman also warned commercial consumers including hotels, malls and other business outlets who have been found involved in tampering with meters and have been caught red-handed by the Central Inspection Squad of KPDCL.

“We have taken cognizance under the law and penalised them. These penalties for power theft have been confirmed by the First Appellate Authority under Sections 126 & 127 of the Electricity Act. KPDCL will ensure the fines are deposited, otherwise, we will act tough and initiate legal proceedings against them,” he said, adding the lists of all such defaulters are lying with KPDCL and will be made public soon.

Confirming positive outcomes of accelerated inspection and disconnection drives, a KPDCL spokesman said such drives will continue which are aimed at preventing energy losses and enhancing revenue collection from defaulting consumers.

“There have been many positive takeaways from such drives. This will help us in adhering to power curtailment schedule and extending comfort to the genuine consumers,” he assured.

Reiterating concern over the rate of damage to Domestic Transformers (DTs), the spokesperson urged the consumers to prevent overloading of DTs which puts entire habitations in great hardships during peak winter times.

“We have maintained a steady rate of replacing damaged transformers. Our teams at Central Workshop Pampore and divisional-level workshops are working 24X7 to repair damaged DTs and ensure time-bound replacement,” he added.