Improved Power Supply for Kandhamal Hills
Bureau,Odishabsrta
- Over 82,000 Consumers benefitted
Berhampur, December 2025: TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL) has completed a major upgrade of the 33 kV feeder line from G. Udayagiri to K. Nuagaon, significantly strengthening power reliability for nearly 82,000 consumers in Kandhamal district. The project is especially impactful for the tribal and hilly regions of Baliguda, Daringbadi, Tumudibandha, Raikia and several interior villages, where power supply challenges have long been influenced by difficult terrain, dense forests and frequent weather disturbances.
The upgrade involved replacing the old and ageing conductor along a 51-kilometre stretch of the feeder line. This includes a 22 km span from G. Udayagiri to Raikia and a further 29 km from Raikia to K. Nuagaon. The earlier 35 sq mm conductor, which had limited capacity and often struggled under heavy load, has now been replaced with a high-capacity 148 sq mm All-Aluminium Alloy Conductor (AAAC). The new conductor supports higher electricity flow and offers improved durability, making it better suited for Kandhamal’s climate, which experiences heavy rain, strong winds and falling tree branches. Its enhanced strength and corrosion resistance will help provide more stable voltage and reduce supply fluctuations, ensuring that households, small businesses and essential services receive dependable electricity throughout the year.
With the completion of this project, the G. Udayagiri–Raikia–K. Nuagaon feeder will now serve as the primary power supply route from the G. Udayagiri Grid Substation. To further ensure uninterrupted supply, the existing Phulbani–Baliguda 33 kV line will function as a backup source. This dual-line arrangement adds an important layer of security to the power network. If one line is affected due to storms, technical issues or natural obstacles, the other can continue to provide electricity, thus reducing outages and supporting faster restoration during emergencies.
Kandhamal’s unique geography has always posed challenges for power distribution. The upgraded feeder will help stabilise supply in remote settlements, benefit schools and health institutions, and support small industries, local markets and community-based livelihood activities. Tourism areas such as Daringbadi, which attract visitors throughout the year, will also benefit from improved power reliability. With better voltage and fewer interruptions, consumers will experience smoother functioning of home appliances, machinery and electric tools used in daily life and economic activities.
Speaking about the development, Mr Amit Kumar Garg, CEO of TPSODL, said that the project reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to providing quality and reliable electricity across Southern Odisha. He noted that strengthening the G. Udayagiri–Raikia feeder will not only improve day-to-day power supply but also support the long-term socio-economic development of Kandhamal district by creating an environment where essential services, households and local enterprises can operate without interruption.
This upgrade is part of TPSODL’s continuous efforts to modernise the region’s power infrastructure. Over the past few years, the company has been investing extensively in feeder strengthening, substation upgrades, replacement of old equipment and the introduction of advanced technologies to reduce technical losses and enhance service quality. By improving network resilience and building capacity for future demand, TPSODL aims to deliver reliable, efficient and consumer-friendly electricity services that contribute to overall regional growth and better living standards for the people of Southern Odisha
