Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 1: As Kashmir prepares for a potentially severe winter influenced by La Niña, authorities announced their plans to ensure effective management of the challenges ahead.
During a visit to the JKSSB examination centers, Divisional Commissioner V.K. Bidhuri told reporters that power supply is expected to improve this winter, depending on consumer cooperation.
“We anticipated the La Niña phenomenon and began preparations early. While last year brought late snowfall, indications suggest this year may usher in a harsher winter, for which our preparations are more robust than in the previous season,” he stated.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), La Niña is a global weather phenomenon forecasted to bring more frequent cold spells and heavier snowfall in the region.
Acknowledging these early warnings, the administration took proactive steps last year to maintain essential services.
Bidhuri highlighted the efficient curtailment schedule implemented by the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) to reduce disruptions, despite challenges posed by dwindling water resources affecting power supply.
“The KPDCL is formulating a revised power curtailment schedule, but public support and cooperation are essential,” he noted, further explaining, “If consumers use inefficient appliances and waste electricity, it will impact everyone adversely.”
The Divisional Commissioner expressed hope for improved power supply this winter compared to last year, emphasizing the comprehensive plans in effect.
He reassured residents of enhanced power availability and fewer outages, underscoring that the administration is fully cognizant of La Niña’s potential effects.
Additionally, Bidhuri urged the public to refrain from temporary fixes during transformer failures, asserting that with the advanced preparations in place, the administration is equipped to tackle the challenges posed by a harsh winter while providing reliable services to the community.
He also referred to a recent incident in Kupwara, where a pregnant woman gave birth on the roadside due to inaccessible snow-covered roads, confirming that the situation is under investigation.
