Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, JULY 05:
Principal Secretary, Power Development department (PDD) H Rajesh Prasad today chaired a Public Darbar at Block Mandal here to address various issues and grievances of the general public.
Deputy Commissioner Sachin Kumar Vaishya; Additional District Development Commissioner, Sher Singh; Chief Planning Officer, ACD, Block Development Officer and other senior officers were also present on the occasion. The darbar also saw participation from BDC Chairman, Madan Lal, former PRI representatives, eminent citizens, and large number of locals.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Principal Secretary urged upon all to welcome the installation of smart meters. He underlined that in order to achieve robust and uninterrupted power supply for prosperity of Jammu & Kashmir, the ongoing power reforms are crucial and must be welcomed wholeheartedly.
During the darbar, the locals raised several issues before the Principal Secretary like enhancement of interior village roads, flood mitigation measures, mining related concerns pertaining to river Tawi, issues related to Rural Development, Revenue departments and others. The public also appreciated the introduction of Smart Buses and expressed hope for more such buses in the future.
While interacting with locals, the Principal Secretary assured them that all of their genuine demands and grievances would be addressed promptly. He noted that some issues would be taken up with the UT administration as well. During the interaction, the Principal Secretary made out that significant reforms have been initiated in power sector from last several years, adding that Rs.10,000 crores have been invested to enhance the power infrastructure, including setting up grid stations, receiving stations, transformers, and power line networks besides a n additional amount of Rs 10,500 crores have been allocated for replacing poles and wires with superior insulated power cables. The Principal Secretary further highlighted that despite challenges, the UT government continues to provide power to consumers at subsidised rates. He emphasised on the need to reduce power losses in Jammu and Kashmir, which are primarily due to non-payment of dues and pilferage.
He informed that 22 lakh consumers are slated to receive smart meters, with 6 lakh already installed, to ensure accurate billing and payment of dues. He also dispelled concerns about overcharging or arbitrary charges by smart meters.
