NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 02(NVI): Kashmir is facing an unprecedented decline in local power generation as prolonged dry weather continues to sap the region’s hydroelectric capacity. The local power grid, which relies heavily on the region’s rivers and glaciers, is experiencing its lowest output due to reduced water levels.
Experts and officials warn that the ongoing situation, compounded by global climatic shifts, could lead to severe energy shortages. The majority of Kashmir’s power generation comes from hydroelectric plants, particularly those situated on the Jhelum and its tributaries. However, the sustained dry spell has significantly diminished water flow into these plants, leading to a sharp decline in electricity production.
A senior official at the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Department, said: “We are witnessing an alarming drop in power generation. Water levels in key reservoirs have fallen drastically, which is directly impacting our hydroelectric plants. This is the lowest we’ve seen in decades, and unless there’s a substantial change in weather patterns, we will face prolonged power outages.”
The Valley’s hydroelectric potential has been severely impacted with some plants running at less than 30% of their usual capacity. Shahid Yousuf, an engineer working at the Chenab Hydroelectric Plant, said:, “In normal conditions, we rely on a steady flow from the rivers but the current situation is far from normal. The water levels are at an all-time low, and even when we release water for power generation, it’s nowhere near enough to meet the demand.” While seasonal dry spells are common, experts attribute the current crisis to a combination of long-term climate changes and unpredictable weather patterns.
Dr. Faisal Mehmood, a climate expert at the University of Kashmir, noted, “This year, the rainfall was much lower than usual and with the melting of glaciers slower than expected, we are left with very little water in the rivers. This is a clear consequence of climate change and it’s impacting the hydropower sector more severely than we anticipated.”
The drop in power generation has already led to widespread power outages, particularly in rural areas that rely heavily on the grid. Local businesses, educational institutions, and hospitals are all grappling with the impacts of unreliable electricity.
Kashmir Chamber of Commerce President, Shafqat Hussain, expressed his concern: “Unreliable electricity is a huge burden on local businesses. It’s affecting everything, from small industries to the tourism sector. We depend on a consistent power supply for our day-to-day operations, and the current shortages are hampering productivity and threatening livelihoods.”
Farmers are also struggling to irrigate their crops, with many turning to inefficient and costly alternatives. Farooq Ahmad, a farmer from Baramulla, said, “Our crops are already suffering from the lack of water, and now with power cuts, we can’t even use our water pumps effectively. This is a crisis for us, and if it continues, we will lose the entire season’s yield.”
A senior official at the Kashmir Power Department, said: “We are working on introducing alternative energy sources and strengthening the distribution network to minimize the impact. However, sources told NVI that the present demand for power on Kashmir is between 2800 to 3000 MWs. (News Vibes of India)
