Cyclone Causes Widespread Power Outages in Telangana
Hyderabad: A severe cyclone has caused extensive damage to the electricity infrastructure across nine districts in Telangana, plunging many areas into darkness. On Sunday, heavy rain and strong winds led to the collapse of 5,120 electricity poles and damaged 168 transformers, creating a significant power outage crisis.
The storm wreaked havoc in Mahbubnagar, Nagar Kurnool, Jogulamba Gadwala, Wanaparthy, Yadadri, Sangareddy, Vikarabad, Nalgonda, and Medchal districts. Large trees and branches were uprooted by the strong winds, falling onto electric wires and poles. This resulted in widespread power disruptions, affecting numerous villages and agricultural fields.
The impact of the cyclone was immediately felt as electricity supply was cut off in many areas. Residents were forced to spend the night in complete darkness, grappling with the sudden loss of power. The damage was not confined to urban areas; rural regions experienced significant disruptions as electricity poles in agricultural fields were also brought down.
In response to the crisis, Southern Discom CMD Musharraf Farooqui conducted a teleconference with the Superintending Engineers (SEs) of the rain-affected districts. He directed the authorities to restore the power supply as quickly as possible. Mobilizing a coordinated effort, electricity department officials and field personnel initiated restoration activities on a war footing.
The restoration work has seen significant progress. Southern Discom staff have managed to restore 33 kV high-tension poles and re-erect 1,479 11 kV poles. Additionally, 2,561 damaged low-tension poles have been repaired, and 133 of the damaged transformers have been restored.
However, despite these efforts, many villages remain in darkness. There are still 386 high-tension 11 kV substations that need renovation. Furthermore, 35 transformers and 634 low-tension power poles are yet to be re-erected. Until these repairs are completed, many areas will continue to face power outages.
The electricity department continues to work tirelessly, prioritizing the restoration of power to the most affected areas. Officials have assured that the power supply will be restored soon, and efforts are being made to expedite the repair process.
Residents have shown resilience in the face of adversity, but the prolonged power outages have highlighted the vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure to natural disasters. The cyclone’s aftermath underscores the need for enhanced preparedness and stronger infrastructure to mitigate the impact of such events in the future.
As restoration work progresses, the community remains hopeful for a swift return to normalcy. The dedication of the electricity department and the cooperation of the residents are crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by this natural calamity. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
