THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, SEPTEMBER 9, 2026

Odisha Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on Wednesday directed Tata Power to expedite ongoing power infrastructure works in Niali, with special focus on comprehensive renovation, stabilisation and capacity enhancement of the critical 33KV transmission network to ensure reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply in the region.

Chairing a review meeting on the power transmission system and electricity services managed by Tata Power in the Niali area, Singh Deo asked the power utility to accord top priority to strengthening the existing infrastructure and completing all pending works within the stipulated timeframe.

The meeting was attended by Niali MLA Chhabi Malik, besides senior officials of the Energy Department and representatives of Tata Power.

The Deputy Chief Minister directed Tata Power to fast-track the technical restoration and upgradation of Air Break (AB) switches and power distribution transformers, stressing that deficiencies in the network should be addressed promptly to minimise disruptions in electricity supply.

He also ordered immediate maintenance drives to remove creepers and heavy vegetation from transformers and transmission lines, pointing out that such growth could lead to electrical short-circuits, equipment damage and accidental outages.

Emphasising consumer safety, Singh Deo directed officials to ensure strict compliance with earthing safety standards in every household in the region. He stressed that safety measures should not be treated as a routine formality and must be implemented effectively on the ground.

The Deputy Chief Minister further cautioned the officials and the power utility that both the pace and quality of the infrastructure works would be closely monitored. He said he would personally undertake unannounced surprise visits to Niali at any time to inspect the progress of renovation and improvement works at the field level.

The review meeting comes against the backdrop of the need to strengthen power infrastructure and improve the quality and reliability of electricity services in the Niali area.