Srinagar, Jan 25: Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Ltd. (KPDCL) on Sunday said it successfully restored the power supply network across the Kashmir Valley following a severe spell of gusty winds and heavy snowfall that caused widespread damage to electrical infrastructure.
The adverse weather conditions resulted in extensive damage to HT/LT networks, Distribution Transformers (DTs), and sub-transmission lines. In several areas, rooftops smashed against overhead lines, further aggravating the damage and disrupting electricity supply.
“Despite all odds, we achieved restoration in a time-bound manner through coordinated, round-the-clock field operations and continuous monitoring. All 33 kV networks, covering 135 out of 135 feeders and 333 receiving stations have been fully restored and charged,” the KPDCL said, adding that nearly 95 percent of the 11 kV distribution network (1240 out of 1307 feeders) has been energized.
Further, power supply to severely damaged networks has been temporarily restored and permanent restoration by way of stabilizing the network shall follow. Few 11kV left out feeders in the difficult terrains of Keran, Machil, Tangdar etc. are under restoration and shall be charged at an earliest.
Overall, power supply has largely normalized across the Kashmir Valley, with recording of peak load above 1600 MW by SLDC.
The restoration efforts were carried out under the instructions of the Financial Commissioner, (Additional Chief Secretary), Power Development Department and continuously monitored by the Managing Director/Chief Engineer.
The instructions were actively pursued by Superintending Engineers, Executive Engineers, and dedicated field teams to restore the power supply network. The achievement reflects the high level of preparedness, technical capability, and commitment of KPDCL in meeting public service obligations during adverse weather conditions.
In view of meteorological forecasts predicting another spell of snowfall, KPDCL has further strengthened its preparedness by mobilizing rejuvenated manpower and machinery. KPDCL remains fully committed to maintaining uninterrupted power supply, with its swift restoration mechanism, comprising alert workforce teams and a robust monitoring setup on standby to respond promptly at all levels.
