Surat: In a bid to strengthen power distribution infrastructure and improve supply reliability, Dakshin Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (DGVCL) has accelerated works across its service area, with a strong focus on underground cabling, grid automation expansion and safer overhead conductors.The power utility is developing infrastructure designed to withstand cyclone-like conditions in coastal regions of south Gujarat. However, industries continue to demand better power quality and uninterrupted supply.As part of its upgrade drive, DGVCL has laid 6,906 km of high-tension (HT) electricity lines underground and plans to add another 7,000 km over the next two years. The expansion marks a sharp rise compared to earlier phases — underground HT cabling measured just 490 km in 2005 and increased to 3,995 km by 2012.The company is also ramping up installation of Ring Main Units (RMUs) to enhance reliability and fault management. RMUs connect transformers to the grid and help isolate faulty sections while maintaining supply through alternative feeders, thereby reducing the duration and spread of outages. The number of RMUs has grown from five in 2005 to 1,698 currently. DGVCL aims to scale this up to 8,610 units within two years.In addition, the utility is upgrading overhead distribution lines by replacing open conductors with Medium Voltage Covered Conductors (MVCC), a move aimed at improving safety and reducing faults caused by external contact and environmental factors. The MVCC replacement began in 2024, with 2,010 km installed in the first year and another 6,019 km added in 2025, taking the total converted network to 8,029 km.“No hybrid network ensures better power supply; hence, we are replacing conventional lines with covered conductors. This infrastructure will help maintain supply even during cyclones in coastal areas and ensure quality power,” said M G Surti, chief engineer, DGVCL.Despite the upgrades, industrial stakeholders say power interruptions persist in some industrial pockets. They point out that residential areas in the Diamond City have largely been spared frequent outages.“There has been infrastructure development, but the quality of supply is yet to meet expectations. We look forward to completely uninterrupted power. We were told that some issues stem from transmission infrastructure under GETCO, which also needs strengthening,” said Vijay Mangukiya, president of the Surat Weavers’ Association.
