Kashmir admin braces up for eventualities of winter season

Srinagar, Nov 14: The Kashmir administration is gearing up for preparedness measures for the impending winter season in Kashmir valley. The main focus of the administration seems to be on the smooth power supply during the peak of winter when residents face acute power shortages.
The consumers expect gas cylinders to be provided at reduced rates and 200 units of electric power free which apparently may reduce the burden of the people on their pockets. However, the new dispensation headed by Omar Abdullah seems to be silent on two consumer-oriented promises.
The official sources revealed that the decision about Omar’s promises has yet to be taken. “The LPG cylinders and power tariff therefore, is believed to be provided at earlier rates,” the officials said.
Despite these fears, the authorities in Kashmir are ramping up efforts to ensure a smooth supply of essential commodities to the Kashmiris. With preparations beginning as early as September, the administration is taking a proactive approach to ensure that essential services remain operational throughout the season.
Talking to Rising Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, V.K. Biduri, said, “We have conducted thorough reviews throughout October to ensure essential services remain uninterrupted. Improvements have been made to ensure key roads remain open despite heavy snowfall, and we are better prepared to handle the challenges posed by the winter season.”
Snow clearance on priority roads and all other routes is set to be completed within the established timelines, with men and machinery on the ground by November 15, he added.
Regarding power supply, Biduri said that additional power arrangements have been made to meet the increased demand during the winter months. “We have worked to improve the reliability of the electricity grid, especially in areas with smart meters, which will be prioritized for 24×7 electricity,” he said. He also mentioned that around 50 feeders have been designated for this purpose. Additionally, Biduri urged against the use of crude electrical wires, stressing the risks of transformer damage and fires.
In terms of essential supplies, the administration has ensured that remote areas are well-stocked with fuel, LPG, and other vital goods. “By November 15, we will have a seven-month supply of fuel and LPG ready for these areas, and a four-month stockpile for snow-bound regions,” Biduri said.
The health sector has also been prioritized, with heating systems tested in hospitals and 4×4 ambulances available for emergency medical services. “We’ve ensured that healthcare facilities are well-equipped to function smoothly during the winter, and the emergencies be taken seriously,” Biduri added.
The authorities are even setting up helicopter services in snowbound areas across Jammu and Kashmir for emergency and medical needs, the official said.
He further said the control rooms have also been set up at divisional, and district levels to ensure effective coordination and prompt response throughout the winter season.
Chief minister Omar Abdullah, while chairing a high-level meeting in Srinagar on November 9, to assess winter preparedness in the Kashmir Valley and snow-prone areas of Jammu, stressed the importance of effectively executing the strategy to ensure essential services continue functioning throughout the harsh winter months.
“Plans have been announced, but execution is now crucial. Our preparations will truly be tested with the first snowfall. The prolonged dry spell is already creating challenges of depleted water levels and reduced power generation due to decrease in water flow,” the CM said.