Rs 20-crore World Bank project to upgrade power infrastructure in Una city

The power infrastructure in Una city will be remodeled and modernised at a cost of Rs 20 crore under a World Bank-funded project, said Darshan Singh, Superintending Engineer (SE) of the Una Circle of Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Ltd, here on Thursday.

He said that the funds had been sanctioned under the World Bank Power Sector Development Scheme. he added that the entire power distribution network in Una city would be remodeled and upgraded. At least 100 existing transformers would be upgraded, while some new ones would be installed to ensure regular voltage and uninterrupted supply of electricity.

Darshan Singh said that the existing high voltage 11 KV electricity cables would be replaced while low voltage cables would be changed, as per the requirement. He added that the project would be completed in the coming five to eight months and once commissioned, the power consumers in the city would get regular voltage power and get rid of frequent power fluctuations and faults during the peak summer season.

He said that the precarious mesh of power cables, especially in the old city area, would be replaced with fresh neatly organised cables. He added that the dilapidated power infrastructure in over-stressed areas would also be upgraded.

Darshan Singh said that smart meters would be installed on commercial and residential premises, dispelling the myth that the new meters generate higher bills. He added that smart meters were efficient and help in diagnosing problems in electrical circuits. These meters would be first installed at government offices and homes of power board employees to instil confidence among the general public.

Commissioner of the Una Municipal Corporation Mahender Pal Gurjar said that proper power infrastructure was necessary for the city due to high population density, commercial establishments and government offices. He expressed hope that the project would help mitigate the power issues in Una city.