Kashmir battles power crisis as snowfall disrupts supply

| Updated: 28 December, 2024 2:55 pm IST

Kashmir battles power crisis as snowfall disrupts supply.

Srinagar: Heavy snowfall has plunged vast areas of Kashmir Valley into darkness, causing widespread power outages and leaving thousands without electricity. The disruption began last night as snow damaged multiple feeders, cutting power supply significantly.

In Kashmir region , 41 feeders at 33 KV level and 739 feeders at 11kv level are down.

None at 132kv or 220 level.

Restoration work is underway and more than 90% feeders are expected to be up and functional be evening today.

I’m in regular touch with the PDD team to monitor…

— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) December 28, 2024

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also oversees the Power Development Department (PDD), assured citizens that he is closely monitoring the situation. Sharing updates on X, Abdullah stated, “In Kashmir region, 41 feeders at 33 KV and 739 feeders at 11 KV are out of service. Fortunately, no disruptions are reported at 132 KV or 220 KV levels. Restoration is underway, and over 90% feeders are expected to be operational by this evening. I remain in constant touch with the PDD team.”

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The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) revealed that power supply has sharply declined from 1800 MW to 980 MW due to damaged feeders. Snowfall has disrupted 33 KV and 11 KV lines, but higher voltage levels remain unaffected.

KPDCL’s Chief Engineer shared on social media, “Restoration work is in progress as field staff tackle adverse weather conditions. We urge consumers to remain patient and cooperate while we work tirelessly to restore power. Field staff are following safety protocols diligently.”

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Residents and businesses across the region continue to face significant challenges. Despite the hardships, KPDCL teams are working around the clock to repair damaged lines and ensure electricity is restored as swiftly as possible.

The heavy snowfall has brought both beauty and adversity to the valley, with power supply restoration becoming a priority amidst the winter’s icy grip.