Rs 1,600 crore power overhaul promises uninterrupted supply for rural Jammu
Vikram Sharma
JAMMU: The Power Corporation is set to enhance the electricity infrastructure in the Jammu division by installing 30,000 poles and 300 transformers.
This initiative aims to address persistent issues such as low voltage and frequent power disruptions. The project, which has already completed the tender process, is scheduled to commence in March.
Currently, rural areas like Akalpur, Madh, Akhnoor, and Nagarota face severe electricity challenges. Wires are often suspended from trees, making them vulnerable to strong winds, leading to frequent breakages and prolonged power outages lasting up to two days. Frustrated by these recurring issues, residents have staged multiple protests, demanding a permanent solution.
To address these concerns, the corporation has allocated ₹1,600 crore for the project, with 60% of the work already completed. The remaining 40% is expected to be finished by the end of the year. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize and strengthen the power supply system in both urban and rural areas.
Over the years, significant investments have been made to improve the region’s electricity infrastructure. The first phase of the Prime Minister Development Program, implemented between 2015 and 2019, saw an investment of ₹1,200 crore, which significantly bolstered power infrastructure in villages and cities alike. Following this, additional efforts continued from 2020 to 2023 under similar initiatives.
Earlier, between 2015 and 2021, the Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana was implemented across 22 districts, with ₹2,806 crore spent to strengthen the rural power network. The current ₹1,600 crore project is part of the Integrated Power Development Scheme, which aims to further enhance the region’s electricity distribution.
Jammu city, in particular, will see the installation of more than 200 transformers. This is in addition to the 700 transformers previously installed, which have already alleviated many power-related issues. The additional transformers will ensure a stable electricity supply, preventing disruptions during peak winter and summer months.
The upcoming phase, beginning in March, will focus on installing poles and transformers in rural areas, significantly improving the power supply. This initiative is expected to bring much-needed relief to residents who have long struggled with unreliable electricity.
By the year’s end, the completion of these projects will mark a major step toward a more stable and efficient power infrastructure in the Jammu division.
