Srinagar, November 13: Kashmir is facing an average electricity shortage of around 400 megawatts (MW) during winter, with officials reporting an average power demand of 1,700 MW against an available supply of approximately 1,300 MW. Peak demand, meanwhile, has reached 2,400 MW.

The figures were shared during a high-level meeting chaired by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, to review preparations for the winter season and assess the readiness of the power sector.

The meeting discussed electricity demand and supply, availability of transformers, transformer oil, DG sets and high-speed diesel (HSD) in Gurez, along with the progress of tree branch-cutting work to prevent power disruptions.

Officials informed the meeting that all districts had sufficient stocks of transformers, while nearly 80 per cent of the branch-cutting work had been completed.

Garg directed the Chief Engineer of Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) to complete the remaining work at the earliest and increase workshop capacity wherever necessary.

He also stressed that scheduled power curtailment timings must be strictly followed and damaged transformers repaired without unnecessary delays.

Snow Clearance Preparations Reviewed

The Divisional Commissioner also reviewed arrangements for snow clearance across Kashmir and directed concerned departments, including Mechanical Engineering, Roads and Buildings, PMGSY, urban local bodies, Srinagar Municipal Corporation and the Border Roads Organisation, to ensure timely snow clearance.

The directions cover highways, major roads, streets and interior lanes to minimise inconvenience to the public during snowfall.

Officials were also asked to clearly define the responsibilities of different agencies, make proper use of available machinery and manpower, and complete all pending stage contracts to strengthen snow clearance arrangements.

Concerned departments informed the meeting that adequate preparations were in place to ensure prompt snow clearance following snowfall.