WB-funded smart grid scheme to end power cuts in Kullu & Manali

Residents of Kullu and Manali are set to experience relief from frequent power outages with the implementation of the Smart Grid Scheme, a Rs 66 crore project aimed at strengthening the region’s electricity infrastructure. Currently, Kullu faces a 2 MW power overload, forcing the electricity board to impose power cuts. The Smart Grid is expected to resolve this long-standing issue.

Under the scheme, Rs 45 crore will be allocated to Kullu and Rs 21 crore to Manali, with funding provided by the World Bank. The project includes the construction of a new 33/11 KV substation in Kullu, while the existing substation in Manali will be modernised and upgraded. Additionally, power lines will be replaced with underground cables, and 13 transformers will be installed in Kullu, while 24 will be set up in Manali.

The initiative aims to eliminate low voltage and power shortages in Kullu by establishing a 2x10 MW capacity power substation at the district headquarters. Furthermore, 25 km of high-voltage (KV) and 20 km of low-tension (LT) lines will be upgraded to cables, benefiting Seobag, Bandrol, Kharal, Badah, and other suburban areas of Kullu town.

Manali, a major tourist destination, suffers severe power shortages, particularly in winter. As part of the Smart Grid Scheme, 24 transformers will be installed, along with a 14.5 km 11 KV transmission line. Moreover, 12.8 km of 11 KV and 27 km of LT lines will be converted to underground cables, strengthening the transmission network and reducing outages.

HPSEB Superintending Engineer RS Thakur confirmed that the World Bank has approved the scheme, and the tendering process is currently underway. “Work on the project will begin soon,” he assured.

Despite Kullu’s abundance of hydropower projects, residents continue to face power cuts and low voltage issues. Expressing his concerns, local resident Krishan stated, “Voltage levels in Kullu town drop significantly during peak hours, and the erratic supply makes things worse. The situation is even more challenging in rural areas due to outdated infrastructure.” Many locals have called for a complete overhaul of the region’s power transmission network to meet growing electricity demands.

With the Smart Grid Scheme set to roll out, the Kullu-Manali region is on the path to more stable and reliable power supply, ensuring both residents and businesses benefit from modernized electricity infrastructure.