- Sheetal Bhat
Jammu, July 10: Recent heavy rains which lashed Jammu and Kashmir have caused significant decline in the electricity generation at hydro-electric projects in the Union Territory. The availability of power in the region has plummeted by a staggering 1300 megawatts (MW).
A senior official in the Power Department revealed that it will take nearly 3-days to fully restore power generation as the excessive rainfall has led to the accumulation of silt in hydro power plants, severely impacting their efficiency. Due to heavy rains and landslides, the power infra in many districts has also been damaged.
The power generation infrastructure, including hydroelectric power plants, has been significantly affected leading to a decline in power production and subsequent challenges in meeting the energy demands of the region.
“In light of this situation, we appeal to the general public in Jammu and Kashmir to use electricity judiciously and cooperate until the power infrastructure can be restored to normalcy”, said an official of Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL).
The excess water flow in the rivers especially in Chenab, Jhelum and also in rivers in Himachal Pradesh has resulted in the deposition of silt in both state and central sector hydro power plants.
“This accumulation of silt has severely hampered the efficiency of the power generation process, leading to a significant decline in power availability. The power deficit of 1300 MW is a substantial loss for next few days”, claimed an official source.
Every individual in Jammu and Kashmir must recognize the collective responsibility to utilize power judiciously. By adopting responsible practices, we can reduce the strain on the power grid and mitigate the adverse effects of the current crisis.
Conclusion: The recent heavy rains and subsequent silt deposition in hydro power plants have resulted in a significant decline in power availability in Jammu and Kashmir. It is now the collective responsibility of every individual in the region to utilize electricity judiciously and adopt responsible power usage practices. By doing so, we can help alleviate the strain on the power grid, reduce energy wastage, and contribute to the restoration of normalcy in the power supply. Together, let us unite in conserving power and building a sustainable future for Jammu and Kashmir. Hydropower projects have long been regarded as low risk renewable energy investments but risks from floods and droughts are projected to increase dramatically in many river basins due to climate change.
