Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 11 January 2024
The Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) Administration is closely overseeing the power situation in the archipelago.
The addition of 10 MW generation capacity at Bambooflat in October 2023 has played a crucial role in meeting peak demands, resulting in the elimination of load shedding.
Anticipating the need for redundancy in the generation system, an additional 5 MW capacity is expected to be integrated within the next fortnight. This strategic move aims to meet any potential surge in demand and prevent any future power crises.
In a bid to enhance reliability, Relay Coordination Work among all powerhouses and stations in Port Blair is underway through an outsourced agency. This initiative seeks to restrict faults from spreading in power stations, mitigating the risk of shutdowns or grid collapses in the event of feeder or tie line faults.
Further reinforcing the Transmission & Distribution Network, the administration has installed new Distribution Transformers, Poles, and High/Low Tension lines while addressing old and dilapidated lines. These efforts have significantly reduced feeders and line faults, minimising forced power interruptions and outages.
Over the last two years, more than 5000 new connections have been released, with consumers benefitting from a substantial subsidy. Despite an average cost of power supply at Rs. 42 per unit, consumers receive supply at Rs. 2.5 for consumption below 100 units and an average of Rs. 10 per unit, resulting in a subsidy exceeding 75%.
For streamlined redressal of power-related grievances, a 24×7 Centralized Control Room (CCR) has been established. The toll-free number 1800-345-1111 is operational at the CCR located in the EMC building of the Department, offering a dedicated channel for receiving and addressing complaints. The CCR redirects complaints through the Consumer Complaint Handling Mechanism (CCHM) to the relevant site offices for prompt resolution, with daily monitoring to ensure effectiveness.