Archive · 21 Nov 2025
Kashmir Power Surge: 20% Winter Tariff Hike Proposal Sparks Outrage
The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation wants to charge people 20% more for using electricity during peak hours in the winter.
Many people are upset about this because they think it's unfair, especially during a time when they need more power for heating.
KPDCL proposed 20% surcharge on peak-hour electricity usage in Kashmir
Consumers and political parties condemn the 'ill-timed' move
KPDCL aims to manage high demand during peak hours with Time-of-Day (ToD) tariff
Peak hours defined as 6 to 9 am and 5 to 10 pm, totaling eight hours
Final decision rests with the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC)
- Who
- Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation (KPDCL), consumers, political parties
- What
- Proposed 20% surcharge on peak-hour electricity usage
- When
- Proposed for the financial year 2025–26, peak hours defined as 6 to 9 am and 5 to 10 pm
- Where
- Kashmir
- Why
- To manage high demand during peak hours and ease strain on the grid
Consumers and Opposition Parties
KPDCL
Surcharge Timing
Consumers and Opposition Parties
Unfair to charge more during peak winter usage hours
KPDCL
To manage high demand and ease grid strain
Economic Hardship
Consumers and Opposition Parties
Hidden tariff hike during economic hardship
KPDCL
Standard utility measure to rationalise consumption
- Proposed Surcharge
- 20% on peak-hour usage
- Peak Hours
- 6 to 9 am and 5 to 10 pm
- Exempt Category
- Agriculture
- Final Decision Maker
- Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC)