Srinagar Jan 23  (KNS): The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) is facing mounting public anger for failing to stick to its announced power supply schedule.

Despite paying flat meter rates, residents complain of frequent outages and a lack of transparency. In metered areas, consumers allege that power connections are being cut before the due date of their bill payments, further aggravating the situation.

“We Pay, But What Are We Getting?”
"We are paying flat rates for electricity, expecting that the power schedule will be maintained. But there is no adherence to the promised timings. Power is cut off arbitrarily, leaving us helpless," said Rafiq Ahmed, a resident of Handwara. "This is an insult to consumers who are paying without fail."

In metered areas, the grievances are different but equally serious. Shabir Khan, a resident of Airport road, said, "We always clear our bills before the due date, but KPDCL disconnects our power even before the due date arrives. What kind of harassment is this?"

Families in non-metered areas complain of significant hardships due to erratic power supply, especially during winters when heating and essential services rely on electricity. Small businesses are also suffering from the irregular supply.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Arshad Hussain, who runs a bakery in downtown Srinagar, said, "We plan our operations according to the schedule provided by KPDCL, but power cuts happen randomly. It’s ruining our daily work and increasing our costs because we have to depend on generators."

Public outcry has led to growing demands for accountability and immediate corrective measures by KPDCL. "This is a clear failure of the system. How can you expect people to pay when you don’t even follow your own schedules? This is exploitation," said Iqbal Shah, a social activist.

Residents also question the lack of communication from the department. "No one tells us why the schedule isn’t followed. There’s no notice, no explanation, nothing," said Kausar Jan, a homemaker in Pampore.

Repeated attempts to contact KPDCL officials have been unsuccessful.

Citizens are now appealing to the NC government for intervention, demanding strict adherence to power schedules and a fair approach to billing and disconnection practices.

"The NC government cannot ignore this crisis. People are paying for electricity and deserve at least the basic courtesy of scheduled supply and fair billing practices," said Nazir Lone, a retired government employee. (KNS).