The city’s crucial 132 kV Vinoba Bhave–Vehicle Factory Extra High Tension (EHT) line, originating from the 220 kV substation at Nayagaon, Jabalpur and supplying power to half the city including defense institutions and VVIP areas, has been repeatedly faced disruption over the past few months. On July 12, in the Karmeta area, the line was affected during the construction of a two-storey house. Wooden poles were erected within the transmission line’s induction zone, and rainfall led to the formation of a conductive path, causing a disturbance. In the past four months alone, the line has tripped 10 times. The primary cause has been unauthorized construction activities falling within the EHT transmission zone, which not only violate electrical safety norms but also pose a growing threat to public life.

 

Most tripping incidents have been due to intrusion into the line’s induction zone or direct contact with the infrastructure. MP Transco’s Executive Engineer Ajay Pal Singh Chauhan informed that unauthorised houses and construction activities have been carried out under high tension lines in areas such as Polipathar, New Shastri Nagar, Adhartal and Jasuja City. Over the past three years, MP Transco has issued more than 600 notices in such cases. Despite repeated warnings in 2022, 2023, and again in October 2024, construction activities have not ceased. Now, with the support of the district administration, a strict action plan is being implemented. Recent accidents have occurred in Karmeta, Jasuja City, and other areas due to construction near transmission lines.

 

In some cases, laborers have been injured, and in others, vehicles coming into contact with transmission lines have caused power supply disruptions. Fortunately, there has been no major loss of life or property so far. MP Transco has been conducting public announcements and individual awareness efforts in the affected areas. Yet, unauthorized constructions continue. Now, with administrative cooperation, a campaign is being launched to remove such illegal structures. Ensuring the safety of transmission lines and preventing loss of life is the top priority. The company aims to eliminate such illegal and hazardous constructions in the future and ensure continuous, safe power supply for the city’s residents.