Several areas across Jammu have been witnessing prolonged power outages amid scorching heat, turning the electricity crisis into a major public concern.
Frequent power cuts lasting for hours have become common across the region, leaving residents struggling to cope with the ongoing heatwave. The worsening situation has triggered public criticism, frustration and renewed debate over the government’s preparedness to meet rising energy demand.
However, beyond the public anger lies a complex challenge involving climate change, increasing electricity consumption and limitations in the existing power infrastructure.
According to the Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL), the immediate reason behind the outages is a sharp decline in hydroelectric power generation caused by reduced water discharge in rivers, particularly in the Chenab basin. Officials said deficient rainfall and snowfall during the winter season have adversely affected water availability for hydropower projects.
The Meteorological Department stated that the region recorded a 26 per cent rainfall deficit between March and mid-May this year. Several districts housing hydropower projects received below-normal rainfall, directly impacting electricity generation.
Meanwhile, temperatures have risen sharply over the past few days, significantly increasing electricity demand for air conditioners, fans, coolers and refrigerators across the Jammu plains. Estimates suggest that peak power demand in the Jammu region has crossed 1,400 MW, while supply has struggled to keep pace.
Public frustration has also intensified as residents argue that despite paying high tariffs and the much-publicised rollout of prepaid smart meters, which promised improved electricity supply, consumers continue to face frequent disruptions. Reactions on social media reflect growing dissatisfaction, particularly over power cuts during late-night hours.
The crisis has also revived concerns over long-term energy planning in Jammu and Kashmir. Although the region possesses significant hydropower potential, with several projects operational and many others in the pipeline, its heavy dependence on river-based power generation makes the system vulnerable to erratic weather patterns linked to climate change.
At the same time, the region has also been generating a considerable amount of solar power under various government schemes. However, experts believe diversification alone may not be enough without stronger infrastructure and efficient demand management.
While the administration is procuring additional electricity from the central power pool to bridge the gap, officials acknowledge that such temporary arrangements cannot serve as a permanent solution to the region’s growing energy needs.
