Srinagar,In a crisis reminiscent of 2004, Kashmir is facing an acute power shortage, with daily outages lasting up to 16 hours. The situation has left residents, hospitals, and industries struggling, exacerbated by sub-zero temperatures in the region.
Despite assurances from the administration, a committee established to purchase electricity from the Northern Grid has yet to bring relief. The current power generation is at an all-time low, down 85% from the summer season, with demand reaching 3,200 MWs.
H. Rajesh Prasad, Principal Secretary in the Power Development Department, attributed the crisis to reduced electricity generation due to freezing temperatures and a prolonged dry spell. While acknowledging long-term measures for infrastructure upgrades, Prasad noted that the immediate impact may take time to resolve.
Protests and marches have erupted, with the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressing disappointment over the situation’s worsening despite assurances. The power disruptions come amid plummeting temperatures, reaching -1.0°C in Srinagar on Saturday.
As the valley contends with prolonged blackouts, the need for urgent action to address the crisis is underscored, impacting various sectors and causing hardships for residents.
By ANI
