Ludhiana’s Power Grid Gets a Boost, A historic change is coming in the energy structure
News punjab
Ludhiana, May 3
In a significant boost to Punjab’s power infrastructure, Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO has announced the successful executed of large-scale power distribution network improvement works in Ludhiana city during the financial year 2024-25. The comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing power reliability, reducing losses and preparing the grid for future demand, was implemented with a total investment of Rs. 221 crore.
In a statement issued here on Saturday, the Cabinet Minister emphasized that the initiative marked a new era in the state’s power sector modernization. “The upgradation of Ludhiana’s power infrastructure is a landmark step in our mission to provide uninterrupted, high-quality electricity to our citizens. We are committed to strengthening every link in the electricity supply chain to support economic growth and consumer satisfaction,” said Harbhajan Singh ETO.
The Power Minister said that 19 power transformers were successfully upgraded from 20 MVA to 31.5 MVA and three 220 KV high-capacity transformers saw capacity enhancement from 100 MVA to 160 MVA. Further, 2 new 20 MVA transformers were also commissioned. PSPCL has invested Rs. 125 crore for the transformer augmentations.
For modernising the power lines, about 450 km of high-tension (HT) and 470 km of low-tension (LT) lines were upgraded or replaced. Outdated ACSR lines have been replaced by Advanced HTLS conductors at a cost of Rs. 13 crore. LT lines in theft-prone areas have also been converted to insulated cables to reduce pilferage.
Further, the Power Minister also said the 921 new distribution transformers and replacement of 396 overloaded transformers has been carried out with an investment of Rs. 47 crore for strengthening the transformer network.
In a move to optimize the distribution load and for reducing outages, 79 overloaded feeders were bifurcated, improving reliability of power supply. For feeder optimization work investment of Rs. 23 crore has been made.
The Power Minister said that with the installation of over 92,757 smart meters across urban areas, power theft has been curbed and billing efficiency has improved by eight percent. He said the recent improvement works have brought substantial benefits to all categories of power consumers. Most notable outcomes has been the increase in system availability indicating more reliable and consistent power supply to consumers. There has been a significant decline in voltage-related complaints and overall consumer grievances, reflecting the effectiveness of the upgrades. Enhanced safety protocols implemented as part of the improvement plan have also resulted in a noticeable reduction in incidence of electrical accidents ensuring greater security for both personnel and the public.
The Power Minister shared the state’s ambitious roadmap for the financial years 2025–26 and 2026–27, during which an estimated Rs. 728 crore will be invested in further strengthening the power infrastructure. The key initiatives under this plan include the erection of 14 new substations at a projected cost of Rs. 280 crore and the completion of the state-of-the-art 220 kV GIS substation at Giaspura within next 15 days with an investment of Rs. 65 crore.
In addition, 175 feeders are planned to be bifurcated and revamped to ensure better load management and reduced outages, with an estimated cost of Rs. 87.5 crore. The plan also includes the installation of 2,010 new distribution transformers at a cost of Rs. 60.5 crore along with the augmentation of 20 new power transformers for which Rs. 70 crore has been earmarked. To support these extensive upgrades, a budget allocation has already been approved for the upcoming fiscal period, signaling the government’s strong commitment to building a modern, efficient and future-ready power distribution system.
While appreciating the achievements, Harbhajan Singh ETO underlined issues such as right-of-way issues in urban zones, weather-related disruptions and skilled manpower shortages. He stressed the need for accelerated underground cabling, digital monitoring and capacity-building initiatives.
“This transformation is just the beginning,” concluded the minister. “We are building a robust and intelligent power infrastructure that not only meets today’s demand but is ready for the future.”
Adding, the Power Minister said, “The large-scale transformation of Ludhiana’s power distribution network is a direct reflection of the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann. His relentless focus on governance for delivering real & tangible results for the people of Punjab is empowering us to take bold, timely decisions in upgrading our infrastructure. Whether it’s the approval for budget allocation Rs. 728 crores or the push for smart metering and digital monitoring, it is his foresight that is guiding Punjab into an era of reliable, efficient and future-ready power systems. We are proud to implement his vision on the ground.”