Srinagar, Dec 31: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson and In Charge Constituency Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq on Sunday expressed concern over the electricity crisis in J&K, saying the subsequent governments since 2014 have failed to capitalize on advancements and transformative strides made by Omar Abdullah as the power minister and chief minister of J&K.
Tanvir said this while interacting with people at New Colony Lalbazar, Madeen Sahib Hawal, Kathimaidan Zadibal, Abiyaar Zadibal, Khaiwan Kawdara, Ashai Bagh Nigeen Road, Kand Mohalla Mir Behri Dal, and Gucci Mohalla, the party said in a statement issued here. During the whirlwind tour, Tanvir made stopovers at various places, where people brought the predicament of erratic power supply to its notice.
Interacting with the people, Tanvir said, “During Omar Abdullah’s tenure the total energy generated in the state nearly tripled from 879.34 MUs in 2007-08 to 2670 MUs in 2012-13, with significant hydel capacity additions, including the commissioning of the 450 MW Baglihar HEP. However, the current leadership’s lack of direction is evident as they struggle to address the persisting power crisis.”
He said if the current administration emulates even half of Omar Abdullah’s “proactive approach” during his six years in power, marked improvements in the power sector could be achieved. “While Omar Sahib’s government initiated various projects such as Baglihar-II, Rattle HEP, Lower Kalnai, Parnai HEP, and Sawalkote HEP, the current government seems to be lagging in project implementation. The establishment of Chenab Valley Power Projects Ltd. during Abdullah’s tenure further facilitated the development of key projects like 660 MW Kiru HEP and 1000 MW Pakaldul HEP, demonstrating a commitment to tackling the power challenges in the region,” he said.
“In terms of transmission and distribution, Omar Sahab’s government significantly expanded capacity across various sub-station levels, contributing to the notable reduction in energy deficit and peak deficit. The successful implementation of schemes like RGGVY and RAPDRP further enhanced infrastructure, leading to a decline in energy deficit from 37.71% in 2008 to 31.47% in 2012-13,” he said.
The data, Tanvir said, speaks for itself as the per capita consumption had increased from 759 in 2008-09 to 927 in 2012-13, showcasing the positive impact of Omar Abdullah’s initiatives.
“However, the current administration must urgently prioritize and execute similar strategic plans to ensure sustained progress in the power sector and address the lingering issues faced by citizens. The escalating power crisis significantly impacts the lives of citizens, and it is imperative to take swift and comprehensive measures to alleviate the challenges faced by the people and ensure a consistent electricity supply,” he said.
He assured the people that the party will make the people’s voices heard at all appropriate forums and that he will take up the public grievances brought to his notice with the concerned authorities for swift redressal.
