Delhi: Space crunch major hurdle for increasing power distribution network
Space crunch is posing a major challenge in augmentation of the power distribution network in Delhi's densely-packed unauthorized colonies, officials said. Distribution companies have identified nearly 700 such densely-packed places. In a coordinated effort, involving Delhi government's power department, discoms, and other stakeholders, land has been made available for installing power infrastructure like transformers and electric poles, an official of the department said.
700 places identified for space crunch: An official
"Out of the 700 places identified for space crunch, the BSES discoms have managed to get space after working with government authorities and residents," the official said. Discoms are joint ventures of the Delhi government with private companies. The government, discoms, and other stakeholders deployed innovative solutions such as "double-decker sub stations" and "electronic houses" in congested areas to augment the distribution network.
Areas facing space crunch for increasing power distribution
Innovative solutions take 40-50% less space than conventional sub-stations, making them ideal for congested areas like unauthorized colonies. Areas facing space crunch in boosting power-network include unauthorized colonies of Shaheen Bagh near Sarita Vihar, parts of Uttam Nagar, Gandhi Nagar, RPS Colony, Khirki Extension, Krishna Nagar, Yamuna Vihar, Harsh Vihar, Ghitorni, Bijwasan and Rajpur Khud, Karawal Nagar, Daryaganj, Chandani Chowk, Mahipalpur, Mehrauli, and Kishangarh.
Encroachment is a menace in many areas of Delhi
Encroachment is another area of hindrance for discoms in congested places. "This is a 'menace' in many areas...its sheer scale in colonies like Shaheen Bagh is overwhelming," a source said. "It is not even sparing the electricity infrastructure in the area. Electricity poles in the area many of them even hosting transformers have been covered, removed, or damaged due to illegal constructs," he said.
Providing space for adequate expansion in everybody's interest
"It is a common sight to see an electricity pole, literally inside or merged with a flats balcony due to encroachment," the source said, adding illegal extensions pose a grave danger. Officials said it is in everybody's interest, including locals and the government, to provide space for adequate expansion of the infrastructure and meet the growing number of power consumers in the city.
