KPDCL seeks people’s support in execution of ongoing works

Srinagar, July 6: Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) Saturday sought public support in execution and time-bound completion of ongoing works under the premier loss reduction scheme of RDSS in the power sector.

A KPDCL spokesman in a statement issued here said that all 13 packages in 10 districts of Kashmir division stand awarded with five KPDCL packages registering close to 40 percent achievement.

He said that the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) of the Union Ministry of Power aims to improve the quality, reliability, and affordability of power supply to consumers through an efficient distribution system.

“Loss reduction works include installation of steel tubular poles, impregnable LT-AB cable and creation of new DT substations,” the KPDCL spokesman said.

He said that all 13 packages worth Rs 2118 crore stand awarded and work commenced on the ground.

“While five packages of three divisions of Srinagar and one each of Budgam and Baramulla districts is being executed by KPDCL, four packages each of north and central Kashmir (Bandipora, Kupwara, Ganderbal and ED IV Srinagar) and south Kashmir (Pulwama, Anantnag, Kulgam, and Shopian) are being executed by the premier power sector corporations like NTPC and Powergrid,” the spokesman said. “Timeline for completion of RDSS works has been fixed up to 2025 with sunset date of 2026.”

Seeking public support in the timely execution of loss reduction works, he identified hassle-free installation of steel poles and DT substations as key elements for turning around the LT distribution network.

“KPDCL in close coordination with district administrations resolve issues which crop up while laying of loss reduction network,” the KPDCL spokesman said and urged civil society members to cooperate with Turnkey Contractors working at sites.

To tide over huge AT&C losses on account of meter bypass by way of hooking on bare conductor and exceeding of sanctioned load, the KPDCL has flagged installation of aerial-bunched insulated cable under the flagship scheme.

“With the installation of LT-AB cable and smart metering under RDSS, KPDCL will be able to reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply to its consumers,” the spokesman said.

Highlighting the challenges faced by KPDCL in replacing the existing power infrastructure under the government’s modernisation programme, he said that close monitoring of its packages as well as that of NTPC and Powergrid were being monitored on a fortnightly basis.