Srinagar, Jan 23 — Strong winds triggered by a western disturbance severely disrupted electricity supply across the Kashmir Valley, cutting power generation to about 100 MW against the usual 1,700 MW, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Friday.
“Our entire system is down due to strong winds,” Abdullah said. “But the department is gradually fixing the electricity system, and supply is expected to be restored as soon as possible.”
He said restoring essential services remained the government’s top priority, with electricity, roads and water receiving immediate attention.
“The focus right now is on electricity, roads and water. The rest will be taken up later,” the chief minister said.
Abdullah said road clearance work was underway, with priority routes being cleared first to ensure connectivity. Secondary roads would be taken up next, and all routes would be restored in a phased manner, he added.
The chief minister said winter snowfall was crucial for the Valley’s summer months, particularly the snow received during Chillai Kalan, as it helps sustain water resources.
“The snow we receive in winter benefits us in summer. When it melts gradually, it supports water availability,” he said, adding that sudden melting often leads to problems.
He said Kashmir had been waiting for snowfall this season but noted that its distribution had been uneven.
“Most parts of Kashmir received snow, but Srinagar saw very little. It is strange weather,” Abdullah said. “Even the airport received about four inches of snow, but some parts of Srinagar were deprived.”
Expressing hope for improvement, he said snowfall in the city would help address water concerns in the coming months.