Srinagar, Dec 28: Renowned socio-political figure Zaffer Mir (Lasjan) on Thursday commended the joint strategy unveiled by the Lieutenant Governor-led administration of J&K (UT) and the Government of India to harness the vast potential of 15,000 MW hydropower projects in the region.
Mir in a statement deliberated on the crucial facets and potential of this initiative, emphasizing its capacity to meet the energy requirements of the region and contribute surplus power to the Northern Grid.
Highlighting the multifaceted advantages of hydropower, Zaffer stressed its capability to generate employment and reduce harmful emissions and referred to it as “a critical factor in transitioning towards renewable energy”.
He expressed disappointment over the limited power generation in the past 70 years and underscored the absence of vision and efforts to utilize this clean energy source which could have provided relief to the populace of J&K.
“Our regional economic aspirations hinge on the energy sector focus. The role of power generation through clean, non-conventional means is essential today. Such a move will propel the local economy, foster business expansion and spur prosperity in J&K,” Zaffer noted.
He highlighted how Jammu and Kashmir’s natural landscape offers the ideal “flow” and “head” of water that is perfectly suited for environmental-friendly renewable energy.
Drawing parallels with the transformative impact of renewable energy in Africa, Zaffer said its potential to enhance energy access for marginalized communities is huge.
“It will create new jobs, make the people of J&K experience greater economic growth and harvest social and health benefits while helping to mitigate devastating impacts of climate change,” he asserted.
Zaffer contextualized the region’s history, acknowledging the stagnation faced amidst turmoil since the early ’90s while the rest of the country and the world progressed.
“The investment initiatives, combined with appealing propositions are an integral part of the Hon’ble LG’s strategy which we should wholeheartedly welcome as it envisions a future where hydropower becomes a catalyst for economic progress and regional development,” Mir said.
