Ranchi: The Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Ltd (JBVNL) has started works to ensure minimal power disruptions during the upcoming summer season in the state capital. From converting exposed overhead wires into aerial bunched cables (ABCs) to installing and augmenting transformers, the company is undertaking multiple measures at a rapid pace to strengthen the distribution network.Speaking to TOI, JBVNL’s Ranchi general manager Manmohan Kumar said, “Electricity demand rises significantly during summer, and early preparedness is essential for uninterrupted supply. The extended monsoon last year caused considerable damage to power infrastructure. Hence, focus of our preventive measures is to ensure improved power supply quality during both the summer and the monsoon seasons.”As part of its infrastructure upgrade, JBVNL is augmenting existing transformers and installing new ones across the district. A total of 327 transformers were installed in on the Ring Road of Ranchi city. These were a part of 500 transformers installed across the district.The use of ABCs enhances safety by employing insulated conductors that reduce risks arising from tree falls, bird contact, and phase clashes, while also withstanding harsh weather conditions. Their insulation minimises leakage currents, thereby lowering transmission losses and improving overall efficiency. The bundled configuration also makes illegal tapping difficult, helping curb power theft and associated financial losses. “Our target is to convert all exposed wires in the city into aerial bunched cables in the next 6 months. A total of 963.66 km of exposed wires has been replaced with ABCs in Ranchi alone,” Kumar added.Besides, damage repair and line-strengthening work on all 11,000 kV lines were initiated, along with maintenance of 33,000 kV cable circuits. Officials are ensuring that overhead lines remain operational even in areas with underground cables so that supply can quickly be shifted to overhead lines in the event of a fault in the underground system.Measures are also being implemented to enable faster cable-to-cable interchangeability at substations and grid points, ensuring immediate switching in case of line failure and preventing prolonged outages. Mid-span poles are being installed to support wires that were weakened during the previous monsoon. Furthermore, tree branches close to overhead lines are being trimmed to prevent damage during heavy rainfall and strong winds in the coming monsoon season.
