Jk-Power Generation Faces Impending Challenge Amid Prolonged Dry Spell

Jk-Power Generation Faces Impending Challenge Amid Prolonged Dry Spell

Asif Iqbal | January 16, 2024 | 11:18 AM IST | Jammu Kashmir | Follow on Google News

Jk-Power Generation Faces Impending Challenge Amid Prolonged Dry Spell.image/KL

Jk-Power Generation Faces Impending Challenge Amid Prolonged Dry Spell

The persistent dry spell in Jammu and Kashmir is anticipated to have a significant impact on power generation, potentially leading to a challenging situation for the Power Development Department (PDD) during both the upcoming summer and winter seasons.

H Rajesh Prasad, the Principal Secretary of PDD, expressed concern about the ongoing prolonged dry spell affecting power generation. He stated, “If the current weather conditions persist, we are likely to face distress in the upcoming summer and winter seasons. This issue won’t be confined to the summer alone; it could have more severe repercussions in the following winter season, where water scarcity is already a common challenge.”

Prasad provided an overview of the current power generation scenario, mentioning that the PDD is currently generating 200-250 MW out of a total capacity exceeding 1200 MW. He highlighted the peak season during summer, where the department typically generates over 1100-1200 MW.

While officials assured that the ongoing dry spell would not immediately impact the current season’s power generation, they acknowledged the potential consequences if the dry spell persists. The department is closely monitoring the situation, with concerns that power generation during the peak season might be affected.

The officials noted the already observed extremely low water levels during the current winter season, emphasizing that without substantial rainfall and snowfall, the situation could worsen in the upcoming seasons.

In December 2023, reports indicated an 85% reduction in the power generation capacity of Jammu and Kashmir due to water shortages. The total power generation capacity across the region stands at 1200 Megawatts. Principal Secretary H Rajesh Prasad highlighted a significant shortfall in power generation from the Union Territory pool, with only 150 MW being generated during the ongoing winters.

Prasad further explained the heavy reliance of Jammu and Kashmir on the central pool to bridge power gaps. Out of the total capacity of 2800 MW, 2650 MW is sourced from the central pool, while only 150 MW is generated from the state pool, including recent Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) signed by JKPDD. On December 12, authorities announced the signing of PPAs for 2500 MW in the ongoing fiscal year, aiming to double the existing power availability.

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Asif Iqbal

Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.