Project to boost power infrastructure, benefit over 7 lakh consumers in mineral-rich district
Bhubaneswar, April 28 (H.S.): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday laid the foundation stone of a 420/220 kV grid substation at Uchhabali in the Barbil region of Kendujhar district, marking a major step towards strengthening power infrastructure and industrial growth.
The ₹1,647 crore project was announced on the birth anniversary of ‘Utkal Gourav’ Madhusudan Das. The Chief Minister reiterated his vision of transforming Kendujhar into the “second Jamshedpur of eastern India.”
Along with the substation, five new transmission lines were also inaugurated. The project is expected to benefit over 7 lakh consumers across Kendujhar Sadar, Telkoi, Jhumpura, Joda, and Barbil by ensuring reliable and uninterrupted power supply.
Strengthening Power Network
Highlighting the importance of quality electricity, the Chief Minister said the government is committed to developing Kendujhar into a “Golden Kendujhar” by leveraging its rich mineral resources.
He stated that the region will be integrated into a strong power network through 400 kV lines, including connections via TTPS–Joda and Turumunga–Rairangpur corridors, ensuring a balance between industrial and domestic demand.
The state will also introduce ‘hotline maintenance’, allowing repair work without power cuts and reducing disruptions for consumers.
Push for Modernisation
Emphasising digital transformation, Majhi said Odisha is moving towards advanced power management systems. The State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) at Mancheswar will function as the central control hub, supported by real-time monitoring across more than 70 grid stations.
He noted that electricity consumers in the state have increased from 16 lakh in 2000 to nearly 1 crore today. To meet growing demand, 34 new grid substations are planned across Odisha by 2036, including 765 kV grids in key districts.
Industrial Development Focus
The Chief Minister said Kendujhar, which has significantly contributed to the state’s economy, will now receive focused development. He highlighted ongoing projects such as the Barbil ring road and a proposed mega steel plant.
He also mentioned that Japan-based JFE Steel has been invited to establish a facility in the district for producing advanced electrical steel.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo said the expanded power network will also benefit nearby regions like Sundargarh and Angul, with efforts to ensure electricity access in remote areas.
The event was attended by MP Ananta Nayak, MLA Fakir Mohan Nayak, other public representatives, senior officials, and local residents.
(With inputs from H.S.) Inputs & Images courtesy: Hindusthan Samachar (H.S.)
Edited by: Dikshita Bollu
Last Updated on: Tuesday, April 28, 2026 3:46 pm by Bollu Dikshitha | Published by: Bollu Dikshitha on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 3:46 pm | News Categories: India
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