Jammu and Kashmir Grapple with Staggering Electricity Dues Crisis

Electricity dues in Jammu and Kashmir have risen above Rs 3,747 crore across various government departments and agencies. The Public Health Engineering Department is the largest debtor, with security forces and municipal bodies also contributing significantly. Efforts are underway to recover these substantial outstanding dues from defaulters.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah revealed on Thursday that electricity arrears in the Union Territory have exceeded Rs 3,747 crore. The staggering amount covers dues from government departments, public sector units, and security establishments.

The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) is owed Rs 2,31,022.41 lakh, while Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) is short by Rs 1,43,713.01 lakh. Significant defaults have been attributed to the Public Health Engineering Department and security forces.

Efforts to recover these debts are intensifying, with Abdullah emphasizing the financial strain these unpaid dues place on the region's power sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)