In preparation for the upcoming Navratra festival next month, residents of Pune’s Kondhwa area have reason to celebrate as the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) is set to install two new transformers on NIBM Road. The primary aim is to address the persistent issues of power outages and voltage fluctuations that have been plaguing the locality.
According to Neha Dhumal, a junior engineer from MSEDCL, these new transformers, rated at 600KV, will not only cater to the increased power demand during the festive season but also accommodate new electricity connections. The plan is to install these transformers in close proximity to the Nivedita Gardens housing society on NIBM Road.
While the plan to install these transformers was originally intended to be completed before Ganeshutsav, it faced delays due to the need for permissions from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for excavation work. However, Nanda Lonkar, an ex-corporator, expressed confidence that the required approvals would be obtained soon, allowing the project to commence by October 1 and be completed in just 10 days. The goal is to have the transformers operational before the Navratri celebrations commence on October 15.
For the local residents, this decision comes as a much-needed relief from the frequent power cuts that disrupt daily life, particularly during the monsoon season. Nikhil D’Souza, a resident, shared his experience of enduring prolonged power cuts that are not only inconvenient but also dampen the festive spirit.
Numerous housing societies in the vicinity, including those near Bhatnagar Colony lane, Amba Vatika housing society lane, Prithvi Park housing society lane, and other adjoining areas, are expected to benefit from the installation of these new transformers. Kunal Sharma, another resident, highlighted that the existing 330 KV transformers struggle to handle the increased load, leading to frequent voltage fluctuations and damage to electronic appliances.
As the area’s population continues to grow, MSEDCL is working to meet the rising demand for electricity connections while simultaneously addressing the power outage and voltage fluctuation concerns of existing consumers. With the festive season approaching, the surge in electricity usage, as residents decorate their homes and common areas with lights from Ganeshotsav until Christmas and New Year, further underscores the need for improved power supply in the region.
