Power supply across the Kashmir Valley has largely been restored after severe disruption caused by an intense windstorm and snowfall, with approximately 60–65 per cent of the electricity system now operational, said Mehmood Shah, Managing Director of the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL).
Shah said Srinagar, which accounts for nearly 40% of the Valley’s power consumption, has seen around 95% restoration of electricity. Power has also been resumed in several other towns including Sopore, Shopian and Kulgam.
However, he noted that far-flung and upper-reach areas remain without full power as blocked roads due to heavy snowfall are hindering repair crews from accessing those locations. He said restoration work will begin as soon as the snowfall stops and roads reopen, likely by the next morning.
According to the MD, the Valley typically faces a power load of around 1,800 megawatts during this period, while the current supply stands at nearly 1,100 megawatts, indicating a significant portion of the system has recovered in a short period.
Shah added that the damage to the power network was caused primarily by an unusually intense windstorm rather than snowfall, marking one of the most destructive weather events in recent years. Estimated losses to KPDCL due to broken poles and wires are around Rs 5–6 crore, with the final assessment still pending in inaccessible regions.
He praised the preparedness and dedication of power department field staff for swift restoration efforts, and said electricity supply and quality have improved over the past two years, with further enhancements expected by the end of 2026.
(Except the Headline the story is not edited by NewsEye Desk and has been taken from Kashmir Life)
