Residents of the Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP) Township are likely to face prolonged power outages and frequent tripping as the township’s power distribution system is reportedly operating close to its maximum capacity amid soaring summer demand. Incidents of aerial bunch cable bursts and snapping of conductors have already been reported from several areas, raising concerns over the stability of the network. According to sources, the township’s power load recently crossed 42 MW, placing the entire distribution system under severe stress during the ongoing summer season. The excessive load allegedly triggered bursting of aerial bunch cables and breakage of conductors at several locations. To prevent a major system breakdown, officials reportedly resorted to temporary tripping of power supply from TDS-II, Maroda, during late evening peak hours to manage the load. With the intense Nauvtapa heat spell approaching, officials are said to be concerned over the lack of substantial infrastructure augmentation in recent years.

 

Residents may consequently face repeated power interruptions and prolonged outages during peak summer conditions. Sources alleged that no major strengthening work has been undertaken in the BSP Township Electrical Engineering Department (TEED) network since the addition of a section at TDS-II in 2008, despite a steady rise in electricity consumption. The growing use of air-conditioners, household appliances and electric vehicle charging systems has significantly increased the demand for power in the township. Residents further alleged that inadequate sanctions for major upgradation works were provided as the township power distribution system is proposed to be handed over to Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited in the future.

 

However, TEED is required to fulfill several conditions before the transfer process begins, including the installation of more than 32,000 smart meters. Sources said the smart meter installation work is yet to commence and the handover process may take over a year to complete. Meanwhile, officials of the BSP Public Relations Department stated that rising living standards and increased use of electrical appliances during summer are the primary reasons behind the sharp surge in power demand. Officials confirmed that the township recently recorded an all-time peak load of 42.4 MW. TEED officials said routine maintenance, load balancing and enhancement of solar power generation are being undertaken to strengthen the distribution system.

 

They also admitted that the network is currently operating at its maximum rated capacity and any further rise in load may necessitate temporary power interruptions for short durations. Officials further stated that the process for handing over the township power distribution system to Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited is presently at an advanced stage. Meanwhile, officials of the BSP Public Relations Department stated that rising living standards and increased use of electrical appliances during summer are the primary reasons behind the sharp surge in power demand. Officials confirmed that the township recently recorded an all-time peak load of 42.4 MW. TEED officials said routine maintenance, load balancing and enhancement of solar power generation are being undertaken to strengthen the distribution system.

 

They also admitted that the network is currently operating at its maximum rated capacity and any further rise in load may necessitate temporary power interruptions for short durations. Officials further stated that the process for handing over the township power distribution system to Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited is presently at an advanced stage.