SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has expressed profound concern over the deepening power crisis gripping the Kashmir Valley. Despite assurances from authorities, the situation has only worsened, plunging the region into darkness, the Chamber said in a press statement.
KCCI President Javid Ahmad Tenga expressed astonishment at the authorities’ apparent “failure to grasp the severity of the crisis”. The decision to procure insufficient power, as revealed by recent events, has plunged Kashmir into an unprecedented crisis.
“Despite assurances, the Valley continues to grapple with power shortages, revealing a gap of over 800 MW in electricity supply,” Tenga stated. “This has resulted in extended power cuts that severely impact the daily lives of the people.”
The reports indicate that the power supply levels are alarmingly below the demand recorded in 2004. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for immediate action to avert a deepening crisis.
“The non-signing of power purchase agreements is a critical factor contributing to the current predicament,” Tenga added. “This has led to substantial losses for Industry, tourism, handicrafts, trade, retail, horticulture, health services, education, and other sectors.”
The KCCI delved into the specifics of the power infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. There are 13 projects managed by JKPDC, with a cumulative capacity of 1197.4 MW for electricity production. Notably, Baghilar-1 and Baghilar-2, situated on the Chenab Basin, boast a combined capacity of 900 MW. LJHP and USHP-11 Kangan, each with a capacity of 105 MW, are located on the Jhelum Basin. The remaining nine projects have capacities below 30 MW, it said.
Additionally, the six central sector projects, managed by NHPC, contribute a total of 2250 MW to the region, it added.
“However, the actual power received falls drastically short, hovering around 500 MW and occasionally dropping below 350 MW. This discrepancy exacerbates the challenges faced by residents and businesses in the region”.
“The KCCI appreciates the urgency of the situation and emphasizes its impact not only on the business landscape but also on all crucial sectors,” Tenga asserted. “Even the critical healthcare is suffering.”
The KCCI urged the relevant authorities to collaborate swiftly and effectively to address the power crisis, ensuring the well-being of the people and the sustained functioning of businesses in the Kashmir Valley.
