MSETCL set to infuse 2K MW power in region through Rs643 crore projects

Nashik: The Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company (MSETCL), in a strategic move to fortify the regional power grid ahead of the Kumbh Mela 2027, is carrying out developmental works worth Rs643 crore to ensure a seamless and reliable power supply for the pilgrims expected to descend upon Nashik and Trimbakeshwar during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela.The works being undertaken include raising of 220 kV substation at Vilholi (Rajurbahula), 400 kV substation at Pimpalgaon (Sarole), 220 kV substation at Mhasarul and 132 kV substation at Panchavati (MERI) that are aimed to bring in about 2000 MW of power supply to the region.While noting that the work was currently going on in full swing, Sanjeev Kumar, chairman and managing director of MSETCL, said, "The projects have to be commissioned before Dec 2026 considering the important period of Simhastha Mela that starts in June 2027. All the essential civil and structural work however has to be completed before the onset of the monsoon."He added, "The Dec 2026 deadline has to be adhered to to ensure there is enough room for the testing of the systems before the event."Usually, a 220 kV substation helps in delivery of around 400 MW, 400 kV delivers around 1,000 MW and 132 kV around 250 MW. Nashik will thus get about 2,100 MW of additional power source."The infrastructure so prepared will ensure smooth and quality power supply not only at the time of the event, but even thereafter for the industries. The infrastructure will be a major asset for the development of Nashik," another senior official from MSETCL said.To address potential bottlenecks, the contractors have been assured that the administration would provide all necessary support and streamline approvals to avoid delays.The CMD has also instituted a rigorous monitoring mechanism through which project progress will be reviewed every 15 days to maintain momentum.