As winter tourism peaks in Himachal Pradesh, the Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited (SJPNL) issued an advisory on December 18 and reinforced it on December 19, 2025, cautioning residents and visitors about partial water supply disruptions. This advisory, issued in response to a planned shutdown of a key transmission line, highlights the infrastructure challenges facing the state amid significant seasonal pressures.
The affected transmission line — the 66 kV Jutogh-Gumma-Sainj-Hulli corridor — is critical for powering water pumping stations for both the Gumma and Giri Low-Water Supply Schemes. A temporary shutdown of this line, scheduled between late morning and early evening to carry out essential maintenance and tree-lopping activities, has necessitated adjustments to water pumping operations.
SJPNL officials clarified that the shutdown, though temporary, is designed to ensure long-term reliability of electricity supplies and to safeguard the integrity of the transmission infrastructure for the winter season. However, as water pumping stations rely on consistent power, the interruption will inevitably lead to reduced pumping capacity, affecting water distribution in parts of Shimla and surrounding areas during the shutdown window.
This advisory comes at a time when Shimla and other hill towns are experiencing a surge in tourist footfall, drawn by scenic landscapes, chilly weather, and early snow in higher reaches. Increased population density in these urban centres during tourist seasons places added demand on water and power resources, intensifying public concerns over supply continuity.
City residents and hoteliers have responded with mixed reactions. Some acknowledged the necessity of planned maintenance, given the vulnerabilities of ageing infrastructure and the need for preventive measures. Others, however, voiced frustration over the timing, expressing concern that water shortages could strain daily life and hospitality services during peak visitation days.
SJPNL reassured the public that efforts will be made to mitigate shortages through alternative arrangements, such as utilising elevated reservoirs and coordinating with power utilities to minimise downtime. Officials also urged residents and businesses to adopt water conservation practices during the affected period.
Water security has been a growing priority for Himachal Pradesh in recent years, particularly in the face of shifting weather patterns, increasing urbanisation, and the state’s heavy reliance on surface and groundwater sources that are sensitive to seasonal variability.
As winter deepens and tourism continues to rise, balancing essential infrastructure upkeep with uninterrupted service delivery remains a pressing administrative challenge for state authorities
