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SRINAGAR: Minister for Power Development Department (PDD), Revenue, Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR) and Elections, Ali Mohammad Sagar, today visited Zainkote and Bemina to review the power supply scenario, assess winter preparedness and inspect key power infrastructure in Srinagar.

The Minister was accompanied by MLA Hazratbal, Salman Sagar, Managing Director JKPTCL, Managing Director KPDCL, Chief Engineers, Executive Engineers and other senior officers of the Power Development Department.

During the visit, the Minister reviewed the functioning of the existing power infrastructure and stressed the need for ensuring reliable, uninterrupted and quality power supply, particularly during the winter months when electricity demand witnesses a significant increase.

At Zainkote Grid Station, the Minister was informed about the proposed major augmentation of its capacity from the existing 450 MVA to 780 MVA at an estimated cost of Rs. 89.46 crore. The project is aimed at strengthening the transmission network and meeting the growing electricity requirements of Srinagar and its adjoining areas, including Shari-Khas.

The augmentation will also strengthen power supply to the 132/33 kV Grid Station at Waganpora and GIS Khanyar. It was informed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been approved and the tendering process is scheduled to be initiated by November 10, 2026.

The Minister also inspected the 132/33 kV, 200 MVA Grid Station at Bemina, which caters to several densely populated areas of Srinagar, including Bemina, Qamarwari, Karanagar, Fatehkadal, Barbar Shah, PC Depot, JVC and adjoining localities through its associated receiving stations.

He directed the officers to ensure timely completion of all ongoing and proposed works, remove operational bottlenecks and maintain close coordination to minimise power disruptions during the winter season. The Minister also visited the Overview Data Centre at Bemina and took stock of its functioning and related infrastructure.

Emphasising the importance of strengthening the power transmission and distribution network in view of Srinagar's expanding urban landscape and rising electricity demand, Sagar called for a proactive and coordinated approach to winter preparedness. He directed the concerned officers to remain responsive to public grievances and ensure prompt resolution of power-related issues.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here