Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday assured the people that there would be no further increase in electricity tariffs during the tenure of his government.
Addressing a gathering in Tangmarg, Abdullah said the latest revision in power tariffs was not a decision taken willingly but was necessitated by the prevailing circumstances. He said the tariffs had remained unchanged for several years despite rising costs and inflation.
The Chief Minister defended the 6.83 per cent increase approved by the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission, saying the government had tried to keep the revision as limited as possible so that consumers would face minimum additional financial pressure.
Reacting to criticism over the tariff hike, Abdullah questioned the opposition over similar increases implemented during previous governments. He said his administration had taken steps to balance the financial requirements of the power sector with the interests of consumers.
Abdullah stressed that reducing power losses and improving the efficiency of the electricity distribution system would remain among the government’s priorities. He said better management of the sector would help reduce the need for tariff increases in the future.
Reiterating his commitment, the Chief Minister said that people should not expect another power tariff hike during his tenure. He also assured that his government would continue working towards fulfilling the promises made to the people and improving essential services across Jammu and Kashmir.
