Deputy Commissioner (DC) Rajesh Kumar Shavan today chaired a meeting with the Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) authorities to review the power scenario in the district. The meeting focused on addressing key issues related to power distribution, augmentation, and the efficient management of power supply during the winter season.
Sudhir Sharma, Technical officer ED provided a detailed briefing on the power infrastructure in the district. He informed that Kishtwar is being fed by a dedicated 132 KV line and Grids owned by Jammu and Kashmir Power Transmission Corporation limited (JKPTCL).
The district's power demand stands at 100 MW, while the current transformation capacity is 60 MVA including 40 MVA at the Kattarswami Grid and 20 MVA at the NHPC Colony Grid station. An augmentation of 30 MVA at the Kattarswami Grid Station is underway to address the growing demand.
The DC expressed concern over delays in augmentation works at the Kattarswami Grid Station and directed prompt action against contracting agencies responsible for delays. While reviewing measures to maintain power supply in the winters, it was reported that rural areas experience 17-18 hours of power supply, while urban Kishtwar has 20-21 hours of electricity daily.
The district currently has 1,456 transformers, with the transformer damage rate being the lowest in the Union Territory. The DC emphasized the timely replacement of damaged transformers during winters to ensure uninterrupted supply.
DC further directed enforcement agencies to crack down on electricity theft and the illegal bypassing of meters. He stressed imposing penalties on defaulters under relevant laws. Additionally, a target of installing 54,000 smart meters in the district was set to enhance accountability and efficiency.
JPDCL was instructed to notify power cut schedules in advance to minimize public inconvenience. SDMs and Tehsildars were tasked with monitoring power supply in their respective jurisdictions and ensuring a swift response to power-related grievances.
The DC reviewed ongoing developmental projects under the Capex Budget and emphasized maintaining transparency and accountability in their execution. Progress under empanelled Solar Villages was also assessed. Public in general was exhorted to avail the benefits under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana .
Stress was laid on illuminating government buildings and providing safety tools for field functionaries. The progress of initiatives such as the RDDS including loss reduction works and the replacement of wooden poles was also reviewed.
Addressing manpower issues at the Hatta Grid Station, DC assured that the matter would be taken up with the Managing Director (MD) of JPDCL for resolution. The DC concluded the meeting by urging JPDCL authorities to ensure adequate power supply during the winter season, avoid unnecessary power cuts, and enhance coordination among stakeholders to meet the district's electricity needs efficiently.
The meeting was attended by ACR Kishtwar Idrees Lone, CPO Kishtwar Shahnawaz Bali , Er Showkat Ahmad AEE sub division Kishtwar officials from STD Doda JPDCL and other concerned departments . Besides SDMs and Tehsildars joined the meeting through virtual mode.