From Grid to Growth: Manohar Lal's Vision for a Developed J&K

On June 12, 2025, Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, chaired a review meeting in Srinagar to assess the power and urban development landscape in Jammu & Kashmir. The meeting was attended by J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, senior officials from the UT administration, the Government of India, Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), and state power utilities.

The Minister called for the accelerated implementation of works under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), particularly the phased installation of prepaid smart meters—starting with government buildings, followed by commercial and industrial establishments. He emphasized achieving 100% prepaid meter coverage in government colonies by August 2025 and urged prompt settlement of outstanding dues by government departments.

Recognizing Jammu & Kashmir’s significant hydropower potential, the Minister stressed the need for enhanced coordination with the Centre to promote skill development and fast-track NHPC projects in the region.

During his visit, Minister Manohar Lal also inaugurated several key power infrastructure upgrades, including:

Upgradation of 132/33 kV Grid Station Awantipora from 145 MVA to 175 MVA

Augmentation of Grid Station Wanpoh, replacing an old 20 MVA transformer with a 50 MVA unit

Redeployment of the existing 132/33 kV transformer from Wanpoh to Kulgam, following upgrades there

Construction of a boundary wall for the Grid Station at Kulgam

Augmentation of Amargarh Grid Substation from 135 MVA to 195 MVA

Augmentation of Magam Grid Substation from 100 MVA to 130 MVA

Along with several other infrastructure enhancements

These upgrades are expected to significantly boost power reliability and capacity across the region, aligning with the government's broader goals of modernizing infrastructure and enhancing quality of life in Jammu & Kashmir.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.