Bhubaneswar: With Cyclone ‘Montha’ approaching, the Energy Department, headed by Principal Secretary Shri Vishal Dev, is undertaking comprehensive measures to safeguard power infrastructure and ensure electricity supply across Odisha.
Shri Dev, who also holds charge as Principal Secretary, Electronics & IT Department, has been instrumental in coordinating the pre-emptive strategy to mitigate the potential impact of the severe weather.
The preparedness was reviewed in a high-level meeting chaired by the Minister, Revenue and Disaster Management, and attended by the Development Commissioner, Special Relief Commissioner, and Secretaries of line Departments, highlighting the criticality of the Energy Department’s response.
The Energy Department has mobilized significant resources and personnel for rapid response and restoration work. Key actions include:
Preventive maintenance has been completed at Primary and Distribution Sub-Stations (33 KV/11 KV lines). Interposing poles have been installed to strengthen vulnerable line segments.
Adequate stocks of critical equipment, such as transformers, poles, and conductors, have been secured and materials are available at identified sites and additional transit stores.
Over 8,000 personnel from TPSODL and TPWODL, along with pole masters, man-lifters, and tree pruners, have been mobilized for quick deployment and early restoration works. Tower wagons have been deployed across TPSODL areas for tree cutting and trimming.
A 24×7 Central Control Room is functioning at each DISCOM to coordinate field teams and provide real-time assistance. Mobile Distribution Sub-Stations have been readied, and ASKA lights, DG sets, and water pumps have been provided at each division.
Special focus is being given to maintaining an uninterrupted power supply to essential services like hospitals and water supply systems.
Energy Department has prioritized eight high-alert districts: Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur. Consumers have been urged to stay safe and use the 24×7 toll-free helpline 1912 to report any power-related emergencies. The department remains committed to public safety and reliable power supply through coordinated response with district administrations and disaster management authorities.