Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, conducted a comprehensive review of the power and urban development sectors for the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir in Srinagar. The review meeting was attended by Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, the Chief Secretary of the UT, senior officials from the Government of India and the UT administration, as well as representatives from state power utilities and Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs).Key issues concerning the power sector in the UT were discussed during the meeting, including the UT’s progress, challenges, and future requirements. The administration presented achievements and concerns in both the power and urban development sectors, and explored potential solutions to address future demand.The UT acknowledged the significant role of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) in strengthening power distribution infrastructure, particularly in remote areas. Appreciation was expressed for the approval of the revised cost for RDSS works. The UT also sought additional support from the Centre for upgrading transmission and distribution infrastructure, and committed to continuing efforts for sectoral improvements.The Union Minister highlighted that the visit aimed to facilitate the resolution of key issues and the identification of new initiatives to enhance citizen services. He urged the UT to plan capacity enhancement in line with the Resource Adequacy plan and commended ongoing efforts to reduce power purchase costs and improve financial sustainability of power utilities.The UT was advised to swiftly implement sanctioned RDSS projects and to roll out prepaid smart metering in a phased manner—beginning with government establishments and extending to commercial and industrial users. The Minister recommended completing prepaid meter installations for all government departments and colonies by August 2025 and stressed the need to clear pending departmental dues.Recognising the UT’s considerable hydroelectric potential, the Union Minister encouraged its optimal utilisation. He suggested coordination with the central government for workforce skill development in the hydro sector and called for resolution of pending issues related to National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) projects to ensure timely completion. The UT was also urged to consider waiving the water cess on hydro projects to reduce power costs and tariffs for consumers.The Government of India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the overall development of Jammu & Kashmir and expressed good wishes for the welfare of its people.News source: PIB