Govt committed to offer 200 units free electricity: J&K CM Omar Abdullah

Jammu, Mar 05: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that Jammu and Kashmir aims to achieve self-sufficiency in power generation in next two years, ensuring a reliable electricity supply, and that the government was committed to offering 200 units of free electricity.

He said Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation was prioritizing the development of hydroelectric power projects to become self-reliant in power generation and provide an uninterrupted electricity to consumers.

Responding to a question from National Conference MLA Shamima Firdous, the Chief Minister, who also holds the charge of Power Portfolio said, in a written reply, said that in collaboration with NHPC, JKSPDC has formed joint ventures such as CVPPL and RHPCL  to implement various projects in Jammu and Kashmir.

The projects include the 1,000 MW Pakal Dul HEP, 624 MW Kiru HEP, 540 MW Kwar HEP, and 850 MW Ratle HEP, all located on the Chenab River in Kishtwar. “With a combined capacity of 30114 MW, these projects are expected to be  commissioned by 2027”, said the Chief Minister.

Moreover, JKSPPDC is implementing two more 37.5 MW Parnai HEP and 12 MW Karnah HEP in Rajouri and Kupwara districts respectively.

“This brings the total capacity addition to 3063 MW by 2027-2028. Moreover, the 48 MW Lower Kalani HEP in Kishtwar and the MW new Ganderbal HEP in Ganderbal have already been tendered”, said the Chief Minister.

He said they are planning to develop seven more projects including 390 MW Kirthai-I, 258 MW  Dulhasti -II, 800 MW Bursar,  1856 MW Sawalkote,  240 MW Uri-I, Stage II, 89 MW Ujh and 930 MW Kirthai-II.

The Chief Minister informed that although these projects would significantly enhance the power generation upon their completion, the hydro power plants witness low power generation during the winters.

“To achieve self-reliance, it is essential to have a balanced mix of power resources including thermal and nuclear power”, said the Chief Minister.

Additionally, the House was informed that the government is also prioritizing renewable energy as a viable resource to meet growing demand and fulfill the international climate change commitments.

Further, the legislator was informed that J&K is in consultation with the Government of India and has developed a Resource Adequacy Plan till 20235 as a major step towards achieving self-reliance in power generation.

When asked whether the government provides 200 units of free electricity to consumers and what steps have been taken in this regard, the government responded positively, saying, “the necessary steps will be outlined during the demand for grants for the sector."