Historic boost to power infra in Ladakh
Govind Sharma
JAMMU, Sept 23: In a landmark development for Ladakh’s power sector, the Government of India has approved a Revised Cost Estimate-II (RCE-II) of Rs 1,925.28 crore for intra-state transmission projects under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP-2015).
The sanction, conveyed by the Union Ministry of Power ensured administrative and financial approval for the balance works of critical transmission lines in the Union Territory.
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Addressing the long-pending demand for reliable electricity in the region, the revised sanction paved the way for expediting two major projects – the 220 kV Phyang-Diskit (Nubra) transmission line and the 220 kV Drass-Padum (Zanskar) line. The projects, being implemented by RECPDCL with POWERGRID providing project management and consultancy services, were originally awarded in July 2021 at an estimated cost of Rs 1,203.08 crore.
With the latest approval, stalled works are set to resume on a war footing, with a targeted completion timeline of October 2026. The completion of these projects will ensure 24×7 reliable power supply across Nubra and Zanskar, reducing dependence on diesel generators. Around 28 DG stations of 7 MVA and 5 MVA capacity currently in use in the two valleys will be phased out, cutting both costs and carbon emissions.
Beyond uninterrupted power supply, the projects are expected to provide a sustainable energy backbone for remote and strategic areas of Ladakh. The availability of grid infrastructure will also facilitate integration of renewable energy projects, including solar parks and schemes like the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
The improved transmission network will boost tourism, strengthen support to defence establishments, and spur socio-economic growth in the high-altitude region, while ensuring significant environmental benefits.
The sanction was approved by the Monitoring Committee of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) in its 52nd meeting chaired by the Union Power Secretary.
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