Extended Power Shutdown from July 2–26 in Srinagar: What JKPTCL’s Upgrade Means for You

JKPTCL Announces Extended Power Shutdown in Srinagar (July 2–26): What You Need to Know

By: Javid Amin | Srinagar | 02 July 2025

Powering Down to Power Up

For nearly a month—from July 2 to July 26, 2025—residents in several areas of Srinagar will experience intermittent power outages as the Jammu & Kashmir Power Transmission Corporation Limited (JKPTCL) undertakes a crucial infrastructure overhaul. The scheduled shutdown will affect both circuits of the vital 132 kV Bemina–Rawalpora Transmission Line, which powers large parts of the summer capital and adjoining colonies.

This isn’t just a routine power cut—it’s a multi-week, phased blackout designed to support long-overdue upgrades that JKPTCL claims will stabilize and modernize Kashmir’s electricity backbone. But as promising as this sounds for the future, the extended nature of the outage is likely to disrupt daily life, impact businesses, and test the patience of residents.

In this comprehensive article, we break down:

• The shutdown timeline and affected zones

• Why JKPTCL is taking this step now

• The technical and environmental triggers

• What this means for daily life and essential services

• The broader picture of power management in Kashmir

• Voices from affected citizens, and what needs to change

Shutdown Timeline & Technical Scope

Main Shutdown Window:

July 2 (6:00 AM) to July 26 (6:00 PM), 2025
Affected Infrastructure: Both circuits of the 132 kV Bemina–Rawalpora Transmission Line (BRTL)

Additional Targeted Outage:

July 5 (6:00 AM to 10:00 AM)
 Affected Areas:

• Rawalpora

• Sanat Nagar

• Hyderpora

• Chanapora

• Baghi Mehtab

• Bone & Joint Hospital region

• Parts of Rangreth

This shorter outage is specific to preventive maintenance at the Rawalpora Grid Substation, which serves as a central node in Srinagar’s electricity distribution network.

Areas Affected: A Long List of Localities on Intermittent Blackout

Over two dozen residential and commercial zones will experience sporadic outages as the power grid undergoes a mix of conductor dismantling, tower erection, and equipment cleaning.

Key Affected Areas (intermittently):

• Silk Factory

• Allochibagh

• Rambagh

• Tulsibagh

• Peerbagh

• Humhama

• Hyderpora

• Rangreth

• Alamdar Colony

• Milatabad

• Hill View Colony

• Gogo

• Wanbal

• Adjacent neighborhoods

With many of these areas being densely populated and semi-commercial, the impact of an extended power cut isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a socioeconomic disruption.

Why Is JKPTCL Shutting Down Power for So Long?

JKPTCL has stated that the following critical operations require a sustained shutdown window:

1. Dismantling & De-stringing of Old Conductors

The existing overhead power lines have reportedly reached the end of their service life. These aging conductors, vulnerable to snapping or overheating, are being removed in phases.

2. Erection of New Towers

As part of the Transmission Augmentation Project, JKPTCL is constructing new high-load towers to enhance power carrying capacity and reduce energy loss over distance.

3. Dust Clearance from Indoor Circuit Breakers and Bus Bars

Kashmir’s hot and humid summer has led to dangerous levels of dust accumulation in electrical components—posing serious fire risks and insulation breakdowns.

JKPTCL’s Stand:

“These upgrades are essential to ensure uninterrupted, stable electricity supply in the coming winter. Short-term pain for long-term gain,” said a JKPTCL official in Srinagar.

Public Advisory: What You Need to Do

JKPTCL has issued the following guidelines for residents, institutions, and businesses:

Plan Ahead for Power-Dependent Needs

• Charge all devices and power banks overnight.

• Schedule oxygen support, dialysis, or other medical equipment use early in the day.

• Install voltage stabilizers to avoid damage from unpredictable power returns.

Use Backup Systems Where Possible

• Invest in inverters or portable generators for essential lighting and refrigeration.

• Commercial setups like restaurants and clinics are urged to arrange alternate power sources.

Cooperate with On-Site Maintenance Teams

• Avoid encroaching or parking near transmission lines under maintenance.

• Report any unusual sparks, smoke, or loose wiring to JKPTCL emergency lines.

What People Are Saying: Voices from the Ground

Ruksana, Home-Based Entrepreneur (Hyderpora):

“I run a bakery from home. No power means no orders, no income. Why such long gaps in such hot weather?”

Bashir Ahmad, Auto Workshop Owner (Rambagh):

“We’ve been dealing with voltage drops for years. If this upgrade finally fixes that, we can wait. But it’s a lot to ask.”

Dr. Tanveer, Consultant, Bone & Joint Hospital:

“July 5’s outage is a concern. Even a few hours without backup could compromise emergency services.”

These testimonies highlight the duality of the situation: public cooperation exists, but transparency and reliable communication from authorities remain lacking.

Broader Implications: Power Crisis in a Growing City

Srinagar has seen rapid urban expansion over the last 10 years. New colonies, commercial hubs, hospitals, and hospitality services are heavily reliant on a consistent power supply. Yet, the transmission infrastructure has not scaled proportionally.

Key Problems:

• Overload during summer/winter peak months

• Fragile feeder systems and poor voltage regulation

• Delayed grid digitization, lacking predictive analytics

The 24-day shutdown, while meant for long-term improvement, exposes these flaws. A smarter grid, with sectionalized shutdowns, would have minimized disruption.

What Needs to Improve?

1. Smarter Grid Upgrades

Implement AI-powered predictive systems to detect conductor damage, load imbalance, or breaker faults before they escalate.

2. Phased Outages, Not Blanket Cuts

Modern power utilities can isolate micro-zones for maintenance without blacking out entire suburbs. Why isn’t this happening here?

3. Public Dashboard for Outages

Real-time updates via a public dashboard or mobile app (like Delhi or Bengaluru power utilities) would build trust.

4. Community Support Stations

Establish community centers with solar power or diesel backup where people can charge devices or store medicines during long outages.

Conclusion: A Necessary Disruption, But Could Be Smarter

The JKPTCL power shutdown from July 2 to 26, 2025, is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it reflects a serious commitment to repairing and upgrading Srinagar’s fragile transmission infrastructure. On the other, it also highlights a lack of adaptability in how these upgrades are communicated and implemented.

As Kashmir’s urban landscape evolves, so must its approach to energy. The residents of Srinagar deserve not just power—but smart power that is responsive, reliable, and people-friendly.

Until then, the candles and inverters stay ready.

Quick Summary: Key Points You Should Know

For complaints or emergency assistance, contact:
JKPTCL Helpline: 0194-2491234
Website: www.jkptcl.in