Burla: Western Odisha has been severely impacted by one of the most intense Kalbaisakhi storms in recent memory, with powerful squalls hitting the region almost daily for the past two weeks.
The continuous storms have wreaked havoc on the power distribution infrastructure, affecting residents across Sambalpur, Bargarh, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, Balangir, Sonepur, Kalahandi, Nuapada, and Deogarh districts. Preliminary assessments reveal that more than 1,000 electric poles have been uprooted, over 2,500 kilometers of 33kV, 11kV, and LT lines have been snapped, and distribution transformers have been damaged or toppled due to fallen trees and flying debris.
In response, power distribution company TPWODL has initiated a large-scale restoration effort, deploying more than 7,500 personnel across these nine districts to repair the extensive damage to the electricity infrastructure.
According to a company statement, TPWODL’s Operations & Maintenance and Projects teams have been working tirelessly in extremely challenging weather conditions. More than 7,863 linemen, officers, and business associates, along with approximately 1,000 additional project workers, have been mobilized for the restoration efforts. To expedite operations, the company has deployed 65 Hydra cranes, 62 pole-masters, 30 dewatering pumps, 876 tree pruners, and 338 vehicles. In areas obstructed by fallen trees, TPWODL is closely coordinating with ODRAF and Fire Services teams to clear access routes.
Despite these intensive efforts, restoration has faced setbacks as new storms strike every evening, creating additional faults even as existing ones are being addressed. On May 30, a sudden gale caused widespread disruption, leaving nearly 1.7 million consumers across Sambalpur, Rourkela, Bargarh, Kalahandi, Balangir, Jharsuguda, Sonepur, and Deogarh without power. Nevertheless, the company has made significant progress. As of 5 PM on May 31, power supply had been restored to over 99.5% of the affected consumers. Teams continued to work through the night using floodlights and emergency resources to normalize the situation in the remaining areas.
“These are extraordinary circumstances. Our teams are out in the field amid lightning, rain, and fallen trees, with safety as our top priority. I salute their courage. We understand the hardship faced by consumers and assure them that every TPWODL employee is on the ground right now to bring back power,” stated TPWODL Chief Executive Officer Parveen Verma.
TPWODL has urged consumers to remain patient and cooperative during this challenging time and has encouraged people to stay away from downed conductors and report any unsafe conditions to its 24×7 helpline.
