As Pune continues to experience a surge in electricity demand, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) is gearing up to meet the growing needs of the city. With approximately 15,000 new electricity connections being initiated every month in the Pune circle, MSEDCL has proposed a range of infrastructure expansion projects totaling INR 5,101 crore. These efforts align with the state government’s initiative to fortify the power infrastructure, ensuring that the city’s expanding consumer base receives a reliable supply of electricity.
During an interactive session organized by the Sajjan Nagarik Manch at the Marathwada Mitra Mandal College’s auditorium, Chief Engineer Rajendra Pawar unveiled these ambitious plans. The session provided a platform for electricity consumers to engage in constructive dialogue with Chief Engineer Pawar.
Chief Engineer Pawar underscored the rapid urbanization occurring in the Pune circle. With an annual influx of 1.8 to 2 lakh new electricity connections, a substantial upgrade in the power infrastructure is imperative to maintain a consistent and high-quality power supply. The proposed projects for the Pune circle encompass the construction of 37 new substations, installation of 23 power transformers, and laying 4,688 km of high-pressure and low-pressure power lines, along with 2,558 km of new underground power lines.
Furthermore, the plan includes 1,699 new distribution switches, increased capacity for 2,277 switches, installation of 7,505 feeder pillars, 2,399 new ring main units, and 439 AB switches. Within this comprehensive scheme, INR 1,850 crore is allocated for smart meters, INR 2,910 crore for enhancing power infrastructure and reducing losses, and INR 342 crore for feeder separation.
Over the past 8-9 months, MSEDCL has meticulously selected sites for ultra-high-pressure substations, identifying 17 suitable locations with capacities of 132 and 220 KV. These substations will be established by Mahapareshan, alongside the installation of 12 additional power transformers, each with a capacity of 50 MVA, in high-voltage substations.
Chief Engineer Pawar proudly highlighted that the Pune circle boasts one of the state’s lowest power distribution losses at 7.93 percent. The circle currently generates a monthly revenue demand of INR 1,683 crore. Ensuring a seamless and dependable power supply to Pune’s 3.55 million consumers remains a top priority, with a strong focus on transparent and dynamic management.
To facilitate better communication with consumers and address grievances efficiently, Customer Grievance Redressal Day has been introduced on the first Wednesday of every month across all 41 sub-divisional offices in the Pune circle.
Furthermore, as part of the Mukhyamantri Solar Urja Krishi Vahini Yojana, 550 MW of solar power will be generated through 59 sub-stations in the Pune circle during daylight hours to provide electricity to farmers. To meet this target, 2,750 acres of land will be required, with 1,681 acres already proposed and 516 acres allocated, according to Chief Engineer Rajendra Pawar.
The interactive session also shed light on the rights and entitlements of electricity consumers, with Deputy Executive Engineer Dr. Santosh Patni offering comprehensive information. The program saw active participation from electricity consumers and MSEDCL officials, fostering a collaborative effort to meet Pune’s evolving energy demands.
