In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

SRINAGAR: Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has achieved a major milestone in strengthening the power infrastructure of the remote Gurez region with the commissioning of the 33/11 kV, 6.3 MVA Kanzalwan Receiving Station. According to the statement, the achievement follows the directives issued during a recent review visit to Gurez by the Managing Director, KPDCL, alongside the Chief Engineer Distribution and senior officials.

The visit, aimed at assessing winter preparedness, resulted in firm instructions to prioritize the commissioning of the Kanzalwan Receiving Station, complete grid connectivity for all habitations, ensure adequate High-Speed Diesel (HSD) dumping, and expedite Smart Metering for improved load management. These measures were considered essential for maintaining uninterrupted power, especially when the region switches to standalone mode due to intermittent snapping of grid connectivity with Grid Station Bandipora.

Acting swiftly and efficiently within the limited working season, the Executive Engineer ED Bandipora and Executive Engineer STD Ganderbal mobilized resources on a war footing and completed target works in record time.

As a result, 100% grid connectivity has now been provided to the habitations of Bagtore, Refugee Mohalla, Dasi Bagtore, Tarbal, Banjran, Kanzalwan, Nai Basti Kanzalwan, Izmarg, Jalindora, Chuntiwari, and Korangbal. The new grid-based system replaces the earlier 7-hour diesel-driven power supply, enabling the decommissioning of DG Sets at Tarbal (200 kVA), Bagtore (100 kVA), Korangbal (62.5 kVA), and Kanzalwan (320 kVA).

To further secure uninterrupted power availability through the harsh winter, KPDCL has stocked 4,68,000 liters of HSD, sufficient to meet regional requirements until May 2026.

In parallel, under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), KPDCL is concurrently progressing with advanced infrastructure and technological upgrades across Gurez. As part of the initial phase, 300 Smart Meters have been installed on the Dawar and Wanpora feeders, significantly enhancing operational efficiency, improving consumer-side load management, and reducing Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses.

KPDCL reiterates its commitment to strengthening power infrastructure, accelerating RDSS implementation, and ensuring a resilient and reliable electricity supply across the remote and challenging terrains of Gurez.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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