Pune’s Growing Electricity Demand Spurs Rs 5,101 Crore Infrastructure Expansion
Pune, 4th September 2023: The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) is ramping up its efforts to meet the increasing electricity needs of Pune. Approximately 15,000 new electricity connections are being provided each month in the Pune circle, prompting MSEDCL to propose various infrastructure expansion projects worth Rs 5,101 crore. This move aligns with the state government’s scheme aimed at strengthening the power infrastructure to empower the city’s growing number of consumers.
Chief Engineer Rajendra Pawar revealed these ambitious plans during an interactive session organized by the Sajjan Nagarik Manch at the Marathwada Mitra Mandal College’s auditorium. The session provided an opportunity for electricity consumers and Chief Engineer Pawar to engage in a constructive dialogue.
Chief Engineer Pawar emphasized the rapid urbanization occurring in the Pune circle. Each year, between 1.8 to 2 lakh new electricity connections are being initiated, necessitating a substantial upgrade in the power infrastructure to ensure a consistent and high-quality power supply. The proposed projects in the Pune circle include the construction of 37 new substations, 23 power transformers, and the installation of 4,688 km of high-pressure and low-pressure power lines, along with 2,558 km of new underground power lines.
Additionally, the plan encompasses 1,699 new distribution switches, an increase in the capacity of 2,277 switches, 7,505 feeder pillars, 2,399 new ring main units, and 439 AB switches. Within this comprehensive scheme, INR 1,850 crore has been allocated for smart meters, Rs 2,910 crore for improving power infrastructure and reducing losses, and Rs 342 crore for feeder separation.
Over the past 8-9 months, MSEDCL has undertaken a rigorous site selection process for ultra-high-pressure substations, ultimately identifying 17 suitable locations with capacities of 132 and 220 KV. These substations will be established by Mahapareshan, along with the installation of 12 additional power transformers, each with a capacity of 50 MVA, in high-voltage substations.
Also Read In Marathi: http://www.punekarnewsmarathi.in/5101-crore-works-proposed-for-infrastructure-power-system-chief-engineer-rajendra-pawar/
Chief Engineer Pawar highlighted that Pune circle boasts one of the state’s lowest power distribution losses at 7.93 percent. The circle currently generates a monthly revenue demand of Rs 1,683 crore. Ensuring smooth and reliable power supply to Pune’s 3.55 million consumers remains a top priority, with a focus on transparent and dynamic management.
To enhance interaction with consumers and address grievances effectively, Customer Grievance Redressal Day has been introduced on the first Wednesday of every month across all 41 sub-divisional offices in the Pune circle.
Furthermore, under the Mukhyamantri Solar Urja Krishi Vahini Yojana, 550 MW of solar power is set to be generated through 59 sub-stations in Pune circle during daylight hours, providing electricity to farmers. To meet this target, 2,750 acres of land will be required, with 1,681 acres already proposed and 516 acres allocated, according to Chief Engineer Rajendra Pawar.
The interactive session also offered insight into the rights and entitlements of electricity consumers, with Deputy Executive Engineer Dr. Santosh Patni providing detailed information. The program welcomed the active participation of electricity consumers and MSEDCL officials.
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