Jammu and Kashmir continues to post the highest transmission and distribution losses in the country, with the figure reaching 48.08 per cent in 2023–24—nearly three times the national average of 17.63 per cent
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NISSAR AHMAD
While a protracted dry spell in Jammu and Kashmir took a toll on the hydropower generation, the transmission and distribution (T and D) losses have further worsened the region’s power situation.
Jammu and Kashmir has been reeling under a long-drawn-out spell since October, depleting the water levels in key rivers and streams.
Officials said that the power generation from the State-owned power projects has fallen to 10 to 15 per cent due to low river discharge.
“Power generation from J&K’s own stations has dropped to about 105 MW, despite an installed capacity of 1,140 MW”, said the officials.
Each winter, the region relies on power purchases from outside Jammu and Kashmir to meet demand as river flows decline.
“This year, however, the situation went downhill due to an unprecedented dry-spell combined with transmission and distribution losses”, said the officials.
Between November 1 and December 9, official statistics show that the Kashmir division received just 7.98 mm of rainfall against a normal of 44.7 mm (an 82.1 per cent deficit), while the Jammu division recorded 6.64 mm against a normal of 38.11 mm (an 82.6 per cent deficit), highlighting an equally severe dry spell across both regions.
Power losses
Jammu and Kashmir continues to post the highest transmission and distribution losses in the country, with the figure reaching 48.08 per cent in 2023–24—nearly three times the national average of 17.63 per cent. The losses, which remain higher than those of any other State or Union Territory, highlight persistent gaps in the region’s power infrastructure and are a major factor behind its recurring electricity shortages.
The Union Power Ministry on Friday informed the Lok Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been allotted ₹6,978 crore under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to upgrade their power distribution networks, curb losses and enhance supply reliability. The amount includes ₹1,064 crore for smart metering and ₹5,304 crore for loss-reduction works.
The ministry said Jammu and Kashmir has completed 34 per cent of its loss-reduction works, while Ladakh has achieved 8 per cent progress.
Published on December 12, 2025