KPDCL promises a brighter, warmer winter

Srinagar, Oct 6: As temperatures dip and Kashmir braces for the harsh winter months, when power demand traditionally peaks, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has assured residents of improved and more reliable electricity supply this year.

Managing Director KPDCL, Mehmood Ahmad Shah, said on Monday that the corporation is better prepared than ever to handle the seasonal surge in power consumption, thanks to major upgrades in infrastructure and system management.

“We will ensure better power supply this winter compared to the previous ones. A lot of work has been done to improve the network in towns as well as cities, including the upgradation of cabling systems and the installation of smart meters. We are hopeful of providing better service to our consumers,” Shah said while speaking to reporters in Srinagar.

During the winter months, Kashmir’s peak power demand touches around 2300 MW, a level that has often strained the system in previous years.

However, the Managing Director of KPDCL expressed confidence that the measures undertaken this year would ease the pressure and minimise outages.

Highlighting progress in the smart meter installation project, he said that the initiative had advanced despite several disruptions.

“Last year, we installed around 3 lakh smart meters, and another 1.15 lakh have been installed recently. Although the process was slowed down by challenges like floods and ‘Operation Sindoor’, the work is continuing and will be completed soon,” Shah said.

The smart meter project is a key part of KPDCL’s broader plan to curb power pilferage, improve billing accuracy, and ensure better load management - all aimed at stabilising electricity supply, especially during high-demand periods.

Despite intermittent adverse weather in parts of Kashmir, Shah said that power supply had remained largely stable, and emergency teams were on standby round the clock.

“Our staff is on high alert to respond to any interruptions. The supply situation has improved significantly compared to last year, and we are fully prepared to meet the winter demand,” he said.

The Managing Director also emphasised that KPDCL was continuously working to strengthen the power distribution network and improve its reliability.

“Even with weather-induced challenges, our focus remains on providing uninterrupted supply and ensuring quick restoration wherever required,” he said.

In recent years, Kashmir has faced recurring power shortages during winters, often triggering public frustration.

The region’s energy deficit, compounded by high transmission losses and growing domestic consumption, has long posed challenges for the power utility.

However, with enhanced grid capacity, upgraded infrastructure, and the accelerated rollout of smart meters, KPDCL officials believe this winter could mark a turning point in ensuring consistent and dependable electricity across the Valley.