Jammu: The Power Development Department (PDD) has issued a detailed report on the massive power restoration drive undertaken after the torrential rains and flash floods of August 25–26, which severely damaged electricity infrastructure across the Jammu region.
The restoration was made possible through seamless coordination between the PDD and multiple state and central agencies, including NHPC, PGCIL, NHAI, and the Police, whose timely assistance ensured uninterrupted execution of repair works.
Swift Restoration Despite Widespread Damage
The rains, overflowing rivers, and landslides caused unprecedented destruction to transmission and distribution systems. Transmission towers collapsed, foundations were submerged, and receiving stations inundated. On August 26, power load plummeted to just 299 MW against a normal demand of 1,050 MW.
Despite these challenges, PDD teams worked round-the-clock under adverse conditions. By August 27 evening, load was restored to 725 MW (70% of normal), and by August 28, it rose to 960 MW (92% of normal). The drive was closely supervised by Principal Secretary, PDD, H. Rajesh Prasad, with coordination among JKPDC, JKPTCL, and JPDCL.
Leadership & Support
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, former CM Omar Abdullah, and Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo closely monitored progress and facilitated additional resources from central PSUs. Executive Directors of PGCIL and NHPC also extended critical technical and logistical support.
Major Transmission Challenges
Transmission lines in tough hilly terrain were worst hit. Towers on the 132 kV River Tawi crossing line collapsed in a cascading manner, while key lines to Kishtwar, Hiranagar–Battal–Manwal, and the 220 kV Barn–Kishanpur line suffered heavy damage, triggering widespread outages in Jammu, Reasi, Rajouri, and Poonch.
To overcome these challenges, MD JKPTCL, Rahilla Wani, and her team deployed innovative solutions. The Emergency Restoration System (ERS), a modular tower that can be installed within 24 hours, was used on the Hiranagar–Battal–Manwal line with PGCIL’s help. High-capacity cranes and specialized equipment were mobilized for repairs near Nagrota and Doda. In inaccessible areas, materials were carried manually over steep terrain.
Distribution Sector Impact
In the distribution network, only 364 of 1,349 feeders were functional on August 26, with nearly 19,000 transformers affected. MD JPDCL, G. P. Singh, prioritized restoring power to essential services, including Defence installations, Jal Shakti, AIIMS, GMC Jammu, and major hospitals—most of which were energized on day one.
Hydropower & Generation
Heavy rains also forced shutdowns of JKSPDC’s hydro projects due to flooding, silt, and road damage. The 900 MW Baglihar project was restored within 60 hours through intensive efforts led by MD JKSPDC, Rahul Yadav. The first unit resumed generation on August 28, and all units were synchronized by August 29.
Road Ahead
While temporary restoration has been completed, permanent restoration of towers, poles, and substation equipment will take several months. PDD has already initiated assessments to plan long-term recovery once weather conditions improve.
A Remarkable Achievement
The exceptional dedication of PDD teams, backed by state leadership and central agencies, turned an almost impossible situation into a success story for the Jammu region.
