Srinagar, Nov 7 (KNS): Minister for Power Development Department (PDD) Ali Mohammad Sagar on Saturday said an amnesty scheme for electricity consumers was under consideration, even as he directed officials to ensure adequate power supply during the winter months and minimise unscheduled outages across Kashmir.

Sagar made the remarks during a visit to the 220/132/33 KV Grid Station at Alusteng, where he reviewed the power supply position, existing infrastructure and the department's preparedness to meet increased electricity demand during winter.

The Minister said the government was considering an amnesty scheme for electricity consumers, adding that the proposal was in the pipeline.

During the inspection, Sagar assessed the functioning of the grid station, its transformation capacity, distribution arrangements and measures being undertaken to ensure reliable electricity supply, particularly in Srinagar and Ganderbal districts.

He directed the officers to minimise unscheduled power cuts and ensure that consumers receive adequate electricity in accordance with the prescribed curtailment schedule.

Emphasising the need for advance planning, the Minister said timely maintenance of infrastructure, effective coordination among field functionaries and prompt response to technical faults were essential to address winter-related challenges.

Sagar asked Chief Engineers and other senior officers to maintain close coordination with local representatives and residents, regularly assess ground-level requirements and ensure prompt redressal of public grievances.

He also directed the department to pay special attention to Kangan and adjoining areas and take necessary measures to address electricity supply issues.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

During the review, officials informed the Minister that the Alusteng Grid Station has an existing transformation capacity of 320 MVA and supplies electricity to several areas of Srinagar and Ganderbal, including Alusteng, Shuhama, Nagbal, Gadoora, Tulbagh and adjoining localities through associated receiving stations.

To strengthen the transmission network and meet growing electricity demand, the department has proposed augmenting the grid station's capacity from 320 MVA to 475 MVA at an estimated cost of Rs 56.78 crore.

The Minister said the proposed augmentation would strengthen the transmission infrastructure and improve the availability, reliability and quality of electricity supply to consumers in the two districts.

He directed the concerned officers to ensure that necessary arrangements are completed well ahead of the peak winter season to prevent avoidable disruptions in electricity supply.

Chief Engineers of the concerned wings of the Power Development Department and other senior officers accompanied the Minister during the inspection.

Later, Sagar met several deputations and individuals who raised various public grievances and developmental issues.

He assured them that genuine concerns would be taken up with the departments concerned for timely resolution.

Reiterating the government's commitment to improving public service delivery, the Minister directed officials to remain responsive to public concerns and ensure adequate and reliable electricity supply throughout the winter season. (KNS)