The active power load in the Kashmir Valley has dropped sharply to less than 100 megawatts against the usual demand of around 1700 megawatts following widespread disruption to the power distribution network, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited said on Friday.

According to KPDCL, the drastic reduction in supply is primarily due to the outage of almost all 33 KV feeders across the Valley, including those feeding critical and emergency services. Strong winds accompanied by extensive tree fall have caused damage to overhead power lines at multiple locations, severely affecting transmission and distribution.

Officials said that restoration teams have been pressed into service across districts and are working on an emergency footing to rectify faults and restore electricity supply. However, ongoing windy conditions and continuous obstruction from fallen trees are posing major challenges to repair operations, slowing down the restoration process.

KPDCL further stated that a detailed assessment of damage to infrastructure is currently underway, but the process is expected to take time due to adverse weather conditions prevailing in the region. Field staff are reportedly facing difficulty accessing several affected areas because of blocked roads and unstable weather.

The prolonged power outage has caused inconvenience to locals in many parts of the Valley, with disruptions reported in domestic supply, healthcare facilities, and communication services.

Authorities have appealed for patience, assuring that all possible efforts are being made to normalize the situation as soon as weather conditions improve.

Officials said priority is being given to restoring supply to essential and emergency services, while full restoration will follow in a phased manner once conditions permit safe repair work. [KNT]