Transmission begins on Bajoli-Holi-Lahal line

Electricity transmission has begun on the Bajoli-Holi-Lahal transmission line’s Lilo section, marking a significant milestone in Chamba’s power infrastructure.

On Saturday, officials from Himachal Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Limited (HPPCTL) and GE Vernova conducted a ceremonial havan at the Hilling-Dalli substation before activating the line. The officials have urged the residents of the villages along the transmission line against venturing the line or its towers to prevent any untoward incident.

HPPTCL Lahal Senior Project Manager Raj Singh said the 220kV double-circuit line, stretching 0.746 km at Hilliing-Dalli, began operations.

The high-voltage line runs near Dalli village and terminates at the GIS substation.

Singh said no one should approach or touch the towers or line, and even domestic animals should be kept away to ensure safety. The construction of the substation, built at a cost of Rs 85 crore, was completed within three years despite numerous challenges.

Frequent landslides along the route caused prolonged road closures, including the collapse of a bridge near Luna on the Chamba-Bharmour National Highway and the Chauli Bailey Bridge in Holi.

Heavy snowfall during the winters further disrupted the work. Despite these setbacks, the project was completed on schedule, setting an example of resilience and efficiency.

“Despite bridge collapses, landslides, and prolonged road closures, the men worked efficiently to complete the Dalli substation on time. This is a testament to the dedication of the teams involved, and all officials and workers deserve congratulations for this remarkable achievement,” said HPPTCL Superintending Engineer Yogesh Sharma.

GE Vernova DGM Sameer Dhal said the company always strived to complete projects within the stipulated timeframe so that people could receive benefits at the earliest.

“The challenges faced during the construction of the Dalli substation were significant, but through the tireless efforts of our employees and the collaboration with HPPTCL, we managed to achieve this milestone on schedule,” he added.