Shillong: The Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (MePDCL) has procured six maintenance vehicles, which are equipped with aerial lift insulated buckets designed to safely and quickly access the power lines at various heights and locations.
Until now, the MePDCL has been using conventional vehicles and ladders for the restoration works.
According to the corporation, such type of vehicles will speed up the maintenance services and reduce the outage period of electricity.
The six vehicles have been procured at a cost of Rs 1.48 crore.
Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL) has introduced the state’s first-ever specialized vehicles under the Meghalaya Power Distribution Sector Improvement Project, with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank’s Externally Aided Project.
The overall total project cost of ADB project is Rs 1225.74 crore, which majorly includes construction of 24 new sub stations, augmentation of 45 existing substations, 617 Ct Km of new 33 KV lines, reconductoring of 295 Ct Km of existing 33 KV lines, 531 Ct Kms of new 11 KV lines, reconductoring of 188 Ct Km of existing 11 KV lines, installation of 1.80 lakh smart meters.
The MePDCL is solely responsible for providing quality power to the esteemed consumers of the state.
About 7,00,000 consumers, including industries, depend on MePDCL for 24×7 supply of electricity.
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“Providing uninterrupted electricity day and night is a daunting task for MePDCL especially during the period of extreme weather conditions. The vast power network throughout the state is often abused during the monsoon. As such, the maintenance and restoration of the power lines within a short duration becomes very challenging,” MePDCL stated.