Replacement of poles, transformers a continuous process: Mondal
Shillong, Apr 22: To strengthen Meghalaya’s electric infrastructure, the state government has taken up replacement of around one lakh rusted electric poles across the state.
Informing this, power minister AT Mondal, however, made it clear that that replacement of rusted electric poles and faulty transformers is part of a continuous process, and not a one-time activity.
“By the time we replace everything, the equipment that is currently in good condition may start rusting in three to four years. So, this process will continue,” he told reporters on Tuesday.
On the status of transformers, he said, “Today we may replace one transformer in one area, but tomorrow a new issue may arise elsewhere. So, this work will keep going on.”
He also said replacement and upgradation of transformers are covered under Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
Meanwhile, the power department is also taking up a work of replacing existing electric supply lines to insulated wires.
The lines are replaced in cases of snapping of wires due to falling of uprooted trees, frequent technical faults, or power theft, he said.
Asked about public safety especially in forested areas where high-tension lines pass through, the minister ruled out chances of mishap as these lines such as 123 KV lines are installed through towers with sufficient height.
“In cases where snapping occurs due to wind or lightning, we take the necessary steps to address it,” he said while responding a recent incident of electrocution of an elephant in Ri-Bhoi district.
On a recent viral video showing children hanging onto electric poles in West Khasi Hills, Mondal said he was not aware of the incident but promised to look into it.
