Jammu, Mar 4 (KNN) The Omar Abdullah-led government will seek the Centre’s support to fully harness the energy potential of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated on Monday.
Addressing the Assembly during the Budget session, Sinha highlighted the region’s abundant water resources, which remain underutilised.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to leveraging these resources to enhance the economic well-being of the people and improve the Union Territory’s financial stability.
“The government is dedicated to harnessing the full potential of these water resources to ensure their economic benefits reach the people and strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s financial position. We will seek the Centre’s support to make a significant leap in the energy sector,” Sinha said.
The Lieutenant Governor noted that Jammu and Kashmir’s energy sector is undergoing a transformative phase, with a strong focus on the timely completion of major hydroelectric projects.
Key initiatives such as the Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle projects are expected to add a collective capacity of 3,014 megawatts, significantly boosting the region’s energy security.
Additionally, projects like Dulhasti-II and Kirthai-I are in the pipeline, reinforcing Jammu and Kashmir’s potential as a hub for renewable energy.
Sinha further outlined progress in power infrastructure, reporting a 50 per cent increase in transmission capacity following the successful completion of 28 projects. Distribution capacity has also risen by 40 per cent, supported by the execution of 194 projects.
The government is expediting the construction of several receiving and grid stations to further enhance transmission and distribution networks, minimise power losses, and improve overall efficiency.
The Abdullah administration is also committed to promoting sustainable energy solutions by installing solar panels on government buildings in a phased manner.
As part of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, solar panels are being deployed in over 80,000 households across the Union Territory, ensuring affordable and clean energy access while advancing renewable energy objectives.
In addition, the government remains focused on achieving 100 per cent smart metering to reduce aggregate technical and commercial losses and increase revenue generation.
This initiative aims to improve efficiency and transparency in the power sector, aligning with the broader vision of a self-sufficient and sustainable energy framework for Jammu and Kashmir.
(KNN Bureau)
