Power supply likely to be improved in JK

Srinagar: To cater to the increasing power demand in Kashmir Valley, specifically during winters, Sterlite Power is poised to commission Northern Region System Strengthening (NRSS XXIX) project ahead of schedule.
Post commissioning of this line, the Kashmir valley can procure reliable electricity for socio-economic development in the region.
Sterlite Power has developed the NRSS XXIX project that connects the northern grid to the state. This project would enable power transfer of 1,000 MW to the Kashmir valley, thus increasing the grid capacity by 70%. The project will soon be commissioned despite challenges like difficult terrain, unpredictable and harsh weather conditions along with personnel security concerns.
According to KNS correspondent while addressing a press conference here Ved Tiwari, CEO, Sterlite PowerInfra business said, “The Northern Region Strengthening Scheme (NRSS)-29 is one the largest private sector transmission project awarded in the country. The project is critical for meeting the power requirements of the state of Jammu & Kashmir. The Kashmir Valley region, besides dealing with socio-economic problems, suffers from blackouts during the harsh winter months. The state currently produces only 800 MW of power and within three years will require almost 4,000 MW of power. Even though it has huge hydropower potential, it must procure power from other states for the foreseeable future. Our project will deliver over 1,000 MW of electricity from Punjab to the Kashmir Valley by strengthening the National Grid. “
“This will lead to the socio-economic development of the state through the improvement in medical facilities, education, etc. SMEs, which directly affects the economic growth of the state, will be benefited through this project in terms of e-commerce, technology/machinery, communication, marketing etc.” Tiwari further added.
Sterlite Power has effectively leveraged its project execution skills as well as effectively deployed technology, being the first to use helicranes to set up a power transmission line, ensuring ahead-of-schedule project delivery and minimizing environmental impact. Nearly 1,150 towers have been erected in some of the most challenging terrains of the PirPanjal range and this will affect the lives of over 1.25 crore people. Post commissioning, the company would operate and maintain the line for a minimum tenure of 35 years. (KNS)