THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BURLA,
JULY 3, 2026
With the onset of the
monsoon bringing heightened challenges for power distribution, TP Western
Odisha Distribution Limited (TPWODL), a joint venture between Tata Power and
the Government of Odisha, has significantly strengthened its electricity
distribution network across Western Odisha through extensive infrastructure
upgrades, preventive maintenance and enhanced emergency preparedness. The
comprehensive initiative is aimed at improving network resilience, ensuring
reliable power supply and enabling faster restoration of electricity during
weather-related disruptions.
As part of its
monsoon preparedness programme, TPWODL undertook extensive inspections of 33
kV, 11 kV and low-tension distribution lines across its operational area. Field
teams replaced damaged poles, insulators, jumpers and other critical equipment,
while systematic tree trimming was carried out near power lines to minimise
weather-induced outages. To further reinforce the network, the company
installed 3,426 intermediate poles and conducted a comprehensive Electrical
Leakage Testing Drive to identify and rectify potential leakage points, thereby
enhancing consumer safety and overall system reliability.
To ensure swift
restoration of power during adverse weather conditions, Emergency Response
Teams have been strategically deployed across the distribution area with
adequate stocks of transformers, poles, conductors, insulators and other
essential restoration materials. TPWODL has also positioned 10 Mobile
Distribution Transformers (DTRs), 17 Man Lifters and five ASKA Light Units to
support rapid restoration efforts. In addition, round-the-clock Control Rooms
are continuously monitoring the network and coordinating emergency response
activities.
Complementing these
preparedness measures, the discom has completed several network-strengthening
projects across Sambalpur, Hirakud and adjoining areas by modernising critical
distribution infrastructure. The works, undertaken in Maa Shakti Nagar, Pradhanpada,
Budharaja Hill Top, Khetrajpur Market, Chitragupta, Chakravartipada in Hirakud,
and the villages of Jhankarpada, Jamjori and Baisnabajhuli, included replacing
conventional bare conductors with insulated Aerial Bunched (AB) cables,
reinforcing distribution lines and upgrading key network assets.
Under these projects,
more than seven kilometres of insulated AB cable have been laid along with the
installation of new utility poles to strengthen the low-tension distribution
network. The upgrades have effectively addressed long-standing issues such as low
voltage, recurring fuse-related complaints, damaged conductors and frequent
power interruptions, resulting in improved reliability and quality of
electricity supply.
Commenting on the initiative, TPWODL CEO Parveen Verma said, "At TPWODL, our priority is to ensure that consumers receive safe, reliable and uninterrupted electricity, particularly during the monsoon when the network is exposed to challenging weather conditions. Through continuous investment in infrastructure, preventive maintenance and emergency preparedness, we have strengthened our network and enhanced our capability to respond swiftly to any disruption, ensuring faster restoration and improved service reliability."
TPWODL has also appealed to consumers to remain vigilant during the monsoon and avoid touching snapped electric wires, damaged poles or electrical installations. Consumers can report power supply disruptions or safety-related issues by calling 1912, the toll-free helpline 1800-2028, or by contacting their nearest TPWODL office.
