RDSS to revolutionise power distribution in J&K: Omar

JAMMU, MAR 05: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today outlined ongoing efforts to address high transmission and distribution losses and modernise the power infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir through the implementation of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
In response to a question from Member Shakti Raj Parihar in the Legislative Assembly, the Chief Minister, who also oversees the Power Development portfolio, highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir’s transmission and distribution losses are among the highest in India, far surpassing those of neighbouring states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
“Our current AT&C (Aggregate Technical and Commercial) losses stand at around 50%. For every rupee’s worth of electricity we supply, we lose approximately 50 paisa. This situation must be gradually improved to align with the performance of neighbouring states,” he said.
The Chief Minister explained that the RDSS scheme has allocated substantial funds for Loss Reduction (LR) projects, including the installation of smart meters, AB cabling, High Voltage Distribution Systems (HVDS), reconductoring, feeder bifurcation, and segregation. These initiatives are tailored to district-specific requirements and aim to reduce both technical and commercial losses across the region.
Omar Abdullah further shared that ₹86.28 crore has been sanctioned for LR works in Doda district, with the project already awarded in September 2023. To date, ₹17 crore has been released in two tranches, and the funds have been fully utilised.
Addressing concerns about the slow progress of RDSS projects, the Chief Minister clarified that the tendering process for Doda district faced multiple delays due to a poor response. However, the tender was successfully awarded on September 8, 2023. Despite these setbacks, he assured the House that 12.25% progress has already been achieved, and work is now moving ahead at full speed, with an expected completion date well before the March 31, 2026 deadline.
Finally, the Chief Minister outlined the structure of the RDSS Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). Part A, which covers loss reduction and smart metering, has already been sanctioned. Part B, which includes modernisation works, is still under review by the Ministry of Power (MoP) and will be awarded once the sanction is received.