Andhra Pradesh Clears ₹522 Crore Power Upgrades for 2027 Godavari Pushkaralu

The State Distribution Reforms Committee (SDRC) on Monday approved several key power sector works under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to ensure uninterrupted power supply during the Akhanda Godavari Maha Pushkaralu in 2027.

The committee, chaired by Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad, reviewed the progress of loss reduction works undertaken by power distribution companies (DISCOMs) under the RDSS, with particular focus on agricultural feeder segregation and bifurcation of overloaded feeders during a video conference.

While DISCOMs had made significant progress, certain works were delayed due to GIS-based surveys, changes in project scope, right of way issues, statutory approvals, power shutdown constraints, adverse weather conditions and supply chain disruptions. Taking these factors into account, the committee approved extension of relevant contracts until March 31, 2027, to facilitate completion of the remaining works.

The committee also reviewed the progress of underground power cabling works under the RDSS in Visakhapatnam. Mr. Sai Prasad directed officials to ensure timely completion of the works while adhering to quality and safety standards. The committee also approved extension of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider contract till March 31, 2027, to complete pending works. The AMISP project has achieved about 81% progress so far.

The SDRC further approved power infrastructure development works worth nearly ₹522 crore proposed by the Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited in preparation for the Pushkaralu.

Mr. Sai Prasad said the government was making elaborate advance arrangements to ensure uninterrupted and quality power supply during the 12-day religious event, which is expected to draw nearly one crore devotees a day to the Godavari region.

Considering the projected additional power demand of around 100 MW in Rajamahendravaram alone, the committee approved various infrastructure works in Rajamahendravaram, Konaseema, Kakinada and West Godavari districts. These include construction of new 33/11 kV substations, laying of additional 33 kV and 11 kV power lines, augmentation of transformer capacity and installation of new distribution transformers.

To further modernise the State’s power distribution system, the committee approved a proposal worth about ₹177 crore for upgrading the existing Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system in Visakhapatnam and establishing a new SCADA system in Rajamahendravaram.

Special Chief Secretary (Energy) K. Vijayanand, DISCOM Chairmen and Managing Directors Prithvi Tej Immadi, Loteti Siva Sankar and P. Pulla Reddy, and other senior officials attended the meeting.