The Kashmir Pulse

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 — A Senior Assitant-cum-Cashier working in the office of Executive Engineer, KPDCL Sub Transmission Division, Sopore has been arrested by Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) J&K for demanding and accepting a bribe of ₹9000, the anti-graft agency said on Monday.

As per the news agency CNS, ACB said it received a complaint against Mohammad Shafi Bhat, Senior Assistant-cum-Cashier in the office of the Executive Engineer, KPDCL, Sub Transmission Division Sopore, alleging therein the demand of bribe of ₹10,000 for release of security amount to the tune of ₹15,560.

“It was alleged by the complainant in his complaint that he is running a firm namely M/S Print Plus at Hazratbal Srinagar and in the year 2021, he had supplied stationery items and log books to the office of Executive Engineer, KPDCL, Sopore for which the bill payment against the supplied items was made by the department but the security deposit amount of ₹15,560 is pending with the KPDCL, Sopore,” said the ACB in a statement.

He further alleged that he approached the department for the release of the security amount many times but one cashier Mohammad Shafi kept delaying on one pretext or another and finally demanded ₹10,000 as a bribe from him for doing so and that he had collected proof against said cashier regarding the demand of a bribe. Under these circumstances, he approached ACB with a written complaint requesting legal action against the Cashier for demanding of bribe, the anti-graft agency said.

“As the contents of complaint prima facie disclose the commission of an offence punishable under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (read with its amendment Act 2018) by the accused public servant namely Mohammad Shafi, Cashier in the office of the Executive Engineer, KPDCL Sub Transmission Division Sopore District Baramulla, accordingly a case FIR No. 09/2024 under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (read with its amendment Act 2018) was registered against him at Police Station, Anti Corruption Bureau, Baramulla and investigations were initiated,” it added.

During the course of investigations, ACB said that the accused public servant was caught red-handed while demanding and accepting a bribe from the complainant by a specially constituted team of ACB headed by a DySP rank officer.

“He was immediately taken into custody after completing the legal formalities. The bribe amount was also recovered from his possession in the presence of independent witnesses. Further investigations into the case are going on,” ACB added in the statement.

SRINAGAR — In an effort to ease the burden of outstanding electricity dues and provide financial relief to consumers, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has issued a crucial advisory urging consumers to take advantage of the extended Amnesty Scheme-2022.

The scheme, offering a pathway to settle outstanding electricity dues, has been extended until March 31, 2025, following a recent decision by the Administrative Council chaired by Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. The decision specifically benefits domestic electricity consumers.

This extension provides consumers with an extended window of opportunity to resolve their outstanding electricity bills under more favourable terms. The move reflects the authorities' commitment to supporting consumers facing financial difficulties, especially amid various economic challenges.

By extending the Amnesty Scheme-2022, the aim is not only to provide immediate financial relief but also to encourage responsible financial management among consumers.

The advisory serves as a reminder to consumers to seize this opportunity and take proactive steps to address their outstanding electricity dues, emphasizing the significance of availing themselves of the extended scheme before the deadline to avoid potential penalties or further financial strain.

The high-level Administrative Council meeting, attended by Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary, J&K; and Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, approved the extension of the Amnesty Scheme, aiming to provide respite to domestic consumers grappling with accumulated power dues.

Under the extended amnesty scheme, domestic consumers stand to benefit from a complete waiver of 100% interest and surcharge on outstanding principal amounts. Notably, the domestic consumer category constitutes a significant portion, comprising over 86% of JKPDD consumers, with nearly half of the total energy consumption in the UT attributed to this demographic.

Despite the substantial benefits offered by the amnesty scheme, approximately 30% of domestic consumers, estimated at around 5.50 lakh, either resort to staggered payments or have defaulted on their electricity bills. The accumulation of outstanding power dues, coupled with late payment surcharges and interest, has exacerbated commercial losses for JKPDD and its associated Discoms.

The implementation of the amnesty scheme has yielded promising results, with a noteworthy recovery of Rs. 235.58 crore from domestic consumers. This initiative enables consumers to avail themselves of the surcharge waiver and facilitates payment of the principal amount through affordable installment plans, thereby easing the financial burden.

Furthermore, the successful recovery of outstanding principal amounts is anticipated to mitigate the Aggregate Revenue Requirement (ARR) and Aggregate Cost of Supply (ACS) gap.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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 — Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) on Thursday said that there was no alternative to the installation of smart electricity meters and that the meters will be installed across Kashmir.

The statement comes amid protests by consumers against the installation of smart meters in their respective areas.

While talking to the news agency KNO, Chief Engineer, KPDCL, Javed Yousuf Dar, said that the ongoing project of smart meters installation in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir will not be in vain. “Smart meters have to be installed today, as well as in the future,” he said.

“As you have witnessed, protests have occurred in the past, but nothing significant resulted from them, and ultimately, the smart meters were installed,” he said.

When discussing the features of smart meters, he mentioned that “there is no difference between smart meters and regular meters, except for one additional feature: providing consumers with automatic readings on their mobile phones or other smart devices,” he added.

While addressing concerns about flat rates in the downtown area, he clarified, “There is no such thing, and just like in other places, smart meters will also be installed in Downtown as well as throughout Kashmir."

PULWAMA — Residents of Malikpora area in the main town Pulwama on Wednesday continued to protest for the second consecutive day against the installation of smart meters by the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited.

The protestors blocked Pulwama-Kakapora road near Khar bridge and demanded that the installation of smart meters should be stopped and those installed should be removed. Protesters warned that if the government didn’t withdraw its decision, every resident of the area would come on the road to protest against the same.

The protesters said, “We hardly earn Rs 200 to 250 per day, how can we afford hefty electricity bills? Only lower middle class reside in this area. The government must rethink before putting one more burden on us.”

The protesters said their families were not in a position to pay the “excessive bills” generated by the devices, so would not allow the department to install the smart meters in their area. “We already have meters installed in our homes and we are paying regular bills. What is the fun of installing new meters?” a protestor asked.

“Owing to the skyrocketing prices of essentials, our family budget is already stressed and we won’t be able to meet the additional expenses,” said another lady, adding, “Unemployment is at its peak. We have to pay water fee, electricity fee, now property tax and other fees, how can we afford all this.”

“No one is rich enough to afford the enormous electricity costs. If meters are installed, we will be unable to afford the bills. We are poor families here, and the majority of our men are daily wagers,” said another protester.

The protesters said that the COVID-19 and uncertain situation in Kashmir had affected the life of a common man who isn't in a condition to bear the extra brunt.

The protesters, mainly women, appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to remove the newly installed smart electric meters in the area as the locality cannot afford the high tariff.

Meanwhile, protestors were later pacified by police who assured them that their genuine demands will be taken up with the concerned department.

The process of installing smart meters began in December 2020 to control electricity thefts. The Jammu and Kashmir Government has set the target of installing four lakh smart meters in union territory by 2023.

PULWAMA — Local women took to the roads on Tuesday and held a protest against the installation of smart meters in Malikpora area of south Kashmir's Pulwama town.

The women congregated on a major Pulwama-Kakapora road to protest the installation of the latest electricity meters. Consequently, the traffic movement was halted.

"Since we come from a middle-class background, we cannot afford to pay for the meters. We insist that the meters be withdrawn from our areas and neighbourhoods where they have already been installed," a woman protester said, without identifying herself.

Another protester argued, "We belong to middle-class families and have limited sources of income. We currently receive an electricity bill in the range of Rs 800 to Rs 950 per month, but we are willing to accept a flat-rate bill of Rs 1100. But these meters ought to be uninstalled and not put to use."

The protesters requested that all the existing, installed electricity meters be uninstalled and that no new meters be put in. "We hope that our pleas find an ear among the union territory administration officials," the protesters pleaded.

Later, policemen including SHO Pulwama visited the spot and tried to pacify the protesters. Also, traffic movement was restored soon afterwards.

SRINAGAR — Amid complaints of pesky power cuts during Sehri and Iftar time from various parts of Kashmir, Kashmir Power Development Corporation Ltd (KPDCL) on Monday said that the department was supplying record electricity during the fasting month and the cuts were the result of huge load shedding at peak hours.

Pertinently, the government had promised adequate electricity this Ramadan and issued directions to the department. However, consumers from different parts of the Valley continued to complain of erratic power supply during Sehri and Iftar times.

As per the news agency KNO, the locals from Srinagar and other districts of Kashmir said that the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited has failed to bring respite from the unscheduled power cuts to the people during the holy month of Ramadan. "The people are being pushed to the wall, especially at the peak times, Sehri and Iftar," they said.

The locals from Prang, Kangan, Akhal, Chattergul, Kachnabal, Najwan, Wayil, Prang, Barwalla Nunner and main town Ganderbal said they are getting electricity for merely 5 to 6 hours a day, thus leaving the consumers here to lurch at large, adding that the concerned department, however, is acting as a mute spectator.

Manzoor Ahmad, a resident of Ganderbal, said that despite paying hefty electricity bills, the department has failed to ensure adequate electricity to them, adding that the locals are being pushed to the wall by forcing them to reel under darkness.

Besides Srinagar, south Kashmir areas like Pulwama, Shopian, Anantnag, Awantipora, Tral, Keller, Zainapora, Harmain, Pampore, Kakapora, Rajpora, Litter, Dooru, Pahalgam, Ashmuqam, Kokernag, Verinag, Bijbehara, Mattan, Seer and north Kashmir areas including Sopore, Baramulla, Lalpora, Tangmarg, Bandipora and many areas of the district also witness the unscheduled power cuts at present.

Meanwhile, the consumers demanded the government look into the matter and ensure that adequate electricity is supplied to them, especially during Sehri and Iftar times.

Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited's Chief Engineer, Javaid Yousuf Dar, however, said that the department supplied the highest-ever electricity to the consumers on the first day of Ramadan at 1893 MWs.

“The demand usually remains high during the peak hours and we have been supplying the best to our consumers. 1850 MWs are being supplied on a regular basis during the peak hours, but as the demand remains high, the curtailments have to be done," he said.

He added that less curtailment is being ensured to supply better electricity to people. He, however, said that since people use electricity one time i.e. during Sehri by switching on all appliances, huge load shedding is witnessed in some areas which lead to power cuts. “The situation will improve by Eid,” he said.

SRINAGAR — In what could be termed as punitive action against the local population for resisting the installation of smart meters, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has snapped the power supply to Rainawari areas of Srinagar city.

The move triggered a protest on Thursday. Dozens of ladies hit the road and blocked the traffic at the main chowk Rainawari here in old Srinagar city.

Amid slogans against the KPDCL and the administration, the protesters said that for the last two days, parts of Rainawari have been reeling under darkness. They alleged that KPDCL snapped the power supply to punish them for resisting the installation of smart meters.

“KPDCL is acting as a dictator, seeking help from law enforcement agencies to suppress people. We won’t be able to pay hefty power bills if smart meters are installed in our area. The government is forcing us to bow down,” one of the female protesters told the news agency KNT.

The installation of smart meters has created protests everywhere in Srinagar city. In some places, agitated people damaged the smart meters, prompting KPDCL to register police cases against the protesters.

SRINAGAR — Tightening the noose against the 'chronic defaulters', the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) in a first-of-its-kind drive has disconnected the electricity supply to 1350 consumers having smart meters.

While talking to the news agency KNO, Chief Engineer, KPDCL, Javed Yousuf Dar, said that the KPDCL has disconnected the power supply to 1350 consumers having smart meters. “The process to disconnect the electricity supply to chronic defaulters is already going on. There is nothing new in it. But, for the first time, the consumers having smart meters have faced the action,” he said.

He further said that the action against the defaulters who don’t have smart meters is already going on since last November, adding that the electricity supply of those consumers who are clearing the pending bills is being restored within 24 hours.

The Chief Engineer further said that the action in this regard is being taken in a phased manner, adding that in the first phase, the department is taking action against the 'chronic defaulters'.

Moreover, the KPDCL in a statement has informed the people about the amnesty scheme launched by the government for its domestic electricity consumers with large outstanding dues, wherein a consumer can pay his outstanding bill in a maximum of 12 easy monthly installments.

The statement impressed upon all the consumers of KPDCL with huge electricity bill outstanding dues that this successful disconnection drive shall be continued with greater force. KPDCL has come out with large infrastructure addition for providing better, efficient, and reliable power supply while keeping extremely low tariff rates to its consumers, it said.

Although the Department has played an active role in motivating and facilitating revenue realization by way of social awareness of judicious electricity use and timely payment of electricity bills, still a large percentage of KPDCL consumers are hesitant in clearing their long outstanding electricity dues, KPDCL said.

"All consumers in general and defaulters, in particular, are advised to clear their electricity outstanding dues or avail amnesty scheme without further delay and help KPDCL to avoid the inconvenience to consumers by the act of disconnection of their power supply," it said.

The statement impressed upon all the consumers of KPDCL with huge electricity bill outstanding dues that this successful disconnection drive shall be continued with greater force.

SRINAGAR — Power Development Department (PDD) has been framing a power curtailment schedule, which is likely to be implemented from the second week of next month.

Kashmir has been facing power cuts for the last many days due to an increase in power demand with the usage of electric gadgets.

An official of the Power Development Department said there would be a further reduction in power supply from the second week of next month. “There will be around four hours of power curtailment in metered areas and over six hours in non-metered areas. But it also depends on the increase in power demand. If people use electricity judiciously, then there will be fewer power cuts. If people don't cooperate and use electricity beyond their registered load, they have to face long power cuts,” the official told news agency KINS.

“From December, there will be a new power curtailment schedule as there will be further increase in demand for electricity,” the official said. As per the rules, metered areas are bound to get a 24-hour power supply.

The official said there is a need for a power curtailment schedule in view of an increase in power demand. “We are framing a power curtailment schedule which will be issued within two weeks,” the official said.

Asked whether there will be improvement in power supply than last year, he replied, “It all depends upon people. If they use electricity judiciously, then there will be improvement in power supply. We have to optimize things from the availability of electricity.”

The PDD has 1300 MWs of electricity available. However, during winters, the demand reaches over 2000 MWs.

The Centre has been allotting additional MWs of power to Jammu and Kashmir in view of higher demand in winter. But there has been less improvement in the Union Territory as over the years the PDD has failed to augment the existing infrastructure to receive additional electricity from the Central grids.

“Additional allocation of power will end the power crisis only when required infrastructure is in place. How will we handle additional power when there is less infrastructure available?” the official added.

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir administration has been building up power infrastructure and power projects to meet Union Territory’s electricity requirement.

J&K has purchased power for around Rs 30,000 crore during the last one decade and there has been a revenue realization gap of Rs 3,000 crore annually, thus putting a huge burden on the state exchequer. Besides that, Union Territory has poor infrastructure of electricity, resulting often in disruption of power.

However, the administration has sanctioned projects worth around Rs 13,000 crore for building up power infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Within next three years, we will also be able to generate additional electricity over 3200 MWs which will cost around Rs 30,000 crore. There won’t be any electricity deficit by 2025 and all people will get electricity round the clock,” a senior official told the news agency KINS.

The official said that existing transformers and power lines are also in bad shape. “There are technical snags in electricity due to poor power infrastructure,” the official added.

Jammu and Kashmir is energy deficient and has to rely on power purchases from the Northern region grid to meet its requirements, especially during winters when demand peaks and its own generation reduces drastically. The total number of consumers is 9.65 lakh in Kashmir with a load of around 1700 MW.

The official said the government over the years had failed to upgrade the existing system in grid stations in Kashmir. “But since last year, there has been a huge improvement in power infrastructure,” the official said.

Besides building electricity infrastructure and generation of electricity, the government is contemplating to make replacement of incandescent bulbs and compact fluorescent lamps with energy-efficient LED lamps in all households of the Union Territory.

Officials said it will help to reduce power consumption in Jammu and Kashmir. Under this programme, officials said the power development department is likely to distribute 80 lakh LED bulbs in Jammu and Kashmir which will help to reduce peak demand in J&K by about 250 MW.

SRINAGAR — Amid the power paucity in Jammu and Kashmir, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has claimed that the previous year’s electricity demand in July at the national level has already crossed yesterday in wake of the increasing demand this year due to the early summer.

The Corporation has said that the power scenario is unlikely to improve and also that nothing can be stated at present.

Talking to the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Chief Engineer, KPDCL said that last year’s record in July of two lakh megawatts at the national level has already crossed yesterday due to the early arrival of summer this year.

“The demand and supply gap is the outcome of the present power scenario. There is no availability of electricity at present. Nothing can be stated about how long the situation continues,” he said.