JAMMU — Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said Jammu and Kashmir has an estimated hydropower potential of around 18,000 megawatts, of which only about 3,000–3,500 MW has been developed so far.
He said with the addition of upcoming projects, total power generation in the Union Territory is expected to rise to nearly 7,000 MW in the coming years.
Abdullah informed the House that detailed project reports and proposals for harnessing the remaining 11,000 MW would be prepared in coordination with the central government and implemented in a phased manner over the next 10 to 15 years.
Describing the power sector as both a challenge and an opportunity, the chief minister said Jammu and Kashmir currently consumes more electricity than it generates and does not fully realise revenue from power usage.
“If we properly harness our power potential, we may not need to depend on central assistance to the same extent,” he said, adding that the long-term goal is to make the Union Territory self-sufficient in electricity and eventually supply power to other parts of the country, especially during peak summer demand.
Emphasising that generation alone is not enough, Abdullah said the distribution network must be strengthened under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). While some districts have shown good progress, others have witnessed delays, he said, adding that he is personally monitoring implementation.
On revenue, the chief minister said electricity consumption must be paid for, with government support for those who genuinely cannot afford it, including provisions such as up to 200 free units under schemes like PM Surya Ghar.
He said the government is committed to proper metering and transparent resolution of discrepancies, including cases where departmental collusion may have occurred.
Responding to concerns over privatisation, Abdullah clarified that there is no proposal to privatise power distribution companies. “Our focus will be on improving accounting, budgeting and strengthening financial guarantees to improve their financial health,” he said. — (PTI)