Hot springs and the geothermal energy potential of Jammu & Kashmir State, N.W. Himalaya, India

It is estimated that more than 5000 MWh of geothermal energy is available at Puga, which could be used for heating, for greenhouse cultivation and, eventually, to generate electricity. Studies have indicated that there is a 90% probability that the Puga field could sustain a 20 MWe power plant. If the Puga geothermal field could be developed, it is very likely that it could be followed by the development of the Chamuthang and Panamik fields. Jammu & Kashmir State suffers from an acute shortage of power, particularly in the mountainous region of Ladakh. The development of geothermal potential would provide for baseload needs, especially in the winter months when the region's hydro-power stations are frequently either shut down or working at significantly reduced efficiency because of freezing of the Indus River. However, any development would need to be undertaken with great care to avoid damaging Ladakh's vulnerable high-altitude desert environment and its unique plant and animal life.