Prayagraj: As soaring temperatures and prolonged heatwaves drive electricity demand to record levels across North India, the power department in Prayagraj has launched an extensive load assessment exercise to ensure uninterrupted supply and prepare for future peak demand, including the Ardh Kumbh.Officials are documenting the load on transformers across the city during peak summer hours to identify high-pressure zones, plan new infrastructure, and develop a long-term roadmap for demand management. The data collected will also guide the construction of new feeders and substations to strengthen the city’s power network.With the scorching summer pushing electricity consumption to unprecedented levels, the Uttar Pradesh government is focusing on maintaining a stable power supply amid rising demand. Treating the current season as a critical test, the power department is compiling detailed data on transformer loads caused by increased consumption.Rajesh Kumar, Chief Engineer of Purvanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (PVVNL), said the department is making every effort to maximise power availability. However, extreme heat has led to a sharp increase in demand, putting significant pressure on transformers and the distribution network.He said brief, controlled power interruptions are currently being used to manage transformer temperatures and prevent system failures. A detailed record is being prepared to identify localities experiencing the highest load pressure. This information will help formulate a comprehensive roadmap for power supply and load management during major events scheduled at the Sangam.Kumar said a thorough analysis of power consumption patterns is essential to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply in the future, as the construction of new feeders will be based on this data.In response to rising demand and the rapid expansion of residential areas, 33 new power substations are planned across the region by 2026-27. Load surveys for the project have already begun this summer.So far, the highest pressure on the power distribution system has been recorded in four areas — Mayo Hall, Bamrauli, Karela Bagh and Naini. Comprehensive survey data from across the city is expected to be available over the next few months.Following the completion of the surveys, the department will coordinate with the district administration to ensure the availability of land for the proposed substations.At the state level, temperatures during April and May this year were significantly higher than during the corresponding period last year, resulting in a sustained rise in electricity demand.Between April 15 and May 22, the state’s average daily power demand increased from 501 million units to 561 million units, while peak demand rose from 29,831 MW to 30,339 MW.
