Jammu, December 4: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the Power Development Department (PDD) at the Civil Secretariat, focusing on key issues such as power supply challenges, curtailment schedules, revenue realization, and measures to improve the efficiency of the power sector during the peak winter season.
In his address, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of minimizing distress cuts and ensuring the public has confidence in the power curtailment schedules announced by the PDD. While people are generally willing to accept planned curtailments, unexpected and prolonged power outages are difficult for them to bear, he noted. He emphasized that deviations from the announced curtailment schedules should be kept to a minimum, with distressed curtailments being rare and effectively communicated.
Omar Abdullah reiterated the need for a transparent and reliable curtailment program to avoid unnecessary disruptions. He called for stringent monitoring and the efficient execution of power plans to ensure consistent power supply while protecting consumer interests.
Rajesh H. Prasad presented a detailed report on the current power supply status, load curtailment programs, revenue realization, and power purchase economics, along with mechanisms to monitor curtailment schedules. The meeting also reviewed the consumer and load profiles across districts in Kashmir, identifying challenges in meeting the region’s power demand.
Discussions centered around strategies to reduce Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses through targeted interventions, and addressing revenue leakages. A comparative analysis of this year’s power availability versus the previous year was also presented for review.
The Chief Minister took the opportunity to launch the Monitoring of Load Curtailment Programme (LCP) via the website www.LCPJK.in, a significant step aimed at ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the power curtailment process.
Omar Abdullah also assessed the physical and financial progress of ongoing projects funded through the UT budget, Centrally Sponsored Schemes, and the Pradhan Mantri Development Package (PMDP). Proposed projects were also reviewed to ensure timely and efficient execution.
The Chief Minister concluded the meeting by reiterating the need for robust implementation of curtailment plans and a reliable power supply to meet the demands of consumers during the winter months.