Minister announces major power infrastructure upgrade in Ludhiana

Ludhiana: Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO announced the successful execution of large-scale power distribution network improvement works in Ludhiana during the financial year 2024-25. "The comprehensive initiative, aimed at enhancing power reliability, reducing losses, and preparing the grid for future demand, was implemented with a total investment of Rs 221 crore," said an official statement.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the cabinet minister said that the initiative marked a new era in the state's power sector modernisation. "The upgrade of Ludhiana's power infrastructure is a landmark step in our mission to provide uninterrupted, high-quality electricity to our citizens. We are committed to strengthening every link in the electricity supply chain to support economic growth and consumer satisfaction," said Harbhajan Singh ETO.
The power minister stated that 19 power transformers in the city were successfully upgraded from 20 MVA to 31.5 MVA, and three 220 KV high-capacity transformers saw capacity enhancement from 100 MVA to 160 MVA. "Also, two new 20 MVA transformers were commissioned. PSPCL invested Rs 125 crore for transformer augmentations," he said.
The statement added that to modernise power lines, about 450 km of high-tension (HT) and 470 km of low-tension (LT) lines were upgraded or replaced. "Outdated ACSR lines have been replaced by advanced HTLS conductors at a cost of Rs 13 crore. LT lines in theft-prone areas have also been converted to insulated cables to reduce pilferage."
The power minister mentioned that 921 new distribution transformers and the replacement of 396 overloaded transformers were carried out with an investment of Rs 47 crore to strengthen the transformer network. "To optimise distribution load and reduce outages, 79 overloaded feeders were bifurcated, improving the reliability of power supply. For feeder optimisation, work investment of Rs 23 crore has been made," he said.
With the installation of over 92,757 smart meters across urban areas, power theft was curbed, and billing efficiency improved, ETO said, adding that recent improvements substantially benefited power consumers.
In 2025-26 and 2026-27, an estimated Rs 728 crore will be invested to strengthen power infrastructure. "Key initiatives under this plan include the establishment of 14 new sub-stations at a projected cost of Rs 280 crore and the completion of the state-of-the-art 220 KV GIS substation in Giaspura within 15 days with an investment of Rs 65 crore," he said.
"In addition, 175 feeders are planned to be bifurcated and revamped to ensure better load management and reduced outages, with an estimated cost of Rs 87.5 crore. The plan also includes the installation of 2,010 new distribution transformers at a cost of Rs 60.5 crore, besides the augmentation of 20 new power transformers, for which Rs 70 crore has been earmarked. To support these extensive upgrades, a budget allocation has already been approved for the upcoming fiscal period," the statement said.
ETO also underlined issues such as right-of-way issues in urban zones, weather-related disruptions, and a shortage of skilled manpower. He stressed the need for accelerated underground cabling, digital monitoring, and capacity-building initiatives.
Future roadmap (FY 2025–26 & 2026–27)
Planned Investment: Rs 728 crore
Key Projects
14 new substations to be erected
Cost: Rs 280 crore
220 kV GIS substation at Giaspura to be completed in 15 days
Cost: Rs 65 crore
175 feeders to be bifurcated
Cost: Rs 87.5 crore
2,010 new distribution transformers
Cost: Rs 60.5 crore
20 new power transformers
Cost: Rs70 crore