Chandigarh, September 6, 2026: In a major step towards modernising Chandigarh’s power distribution system and is strengthening the reliability of electricity supply, the Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) has successfully converted the overhead 11 kV electricity distribution network into an underground cable system across Sectors 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. The project, which will benefit around 25,000 residents, was inaugurated by the Punjab Governor and Administrator UT Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, today. Also present at the inauguration was Senior BJP Leader Shri Sanjay Tandon.

CPDL CEO Mr. Brajesh Kumar, who has played an instrumental role in driving this critical project forward, welcomed the Governor on this occasion.

The project marks a significant infrastructure upgrade in one of Chandigarh’s most important and sensitive areas, which houses key government offices including Punjab and Haryana Civil Secretariat, Punjab and Haryana High Court, Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake and residential areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Punjab Governor and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, said, “Chandigarh is the first Union Territory in the country to have moved electricity distribution to the private sector. We handed CPDL this charge expecting infrastructure enhancement and improved power distribution, and this project is a major landmark along that road. Overhead lines are exposed to the elements, and a fault can leave an area dark for hours. Taking 18 km underground, linked back to the command centre through multiple feeders, removes that exposure. Even if one line develops a fault, supply is restored in the shortest possible time by switching the supply to other line remotely. That means reliable supply while considerably reducing accidents and enhancing the check on power theft. Today, no hospital, no school, no home can function without dependable power. CPDL has planned an investment of over Rs 900 crore in the city's network, with underground cabling a key component, and for the City Beautiful that adds to its character while improving safety and supply."

Under the project, approximately 18 kilometers of underground 11 kV cables have been laid, and SCADA controlled 14 Ring Main Units (RMUs) installed across four distribution feeders passing through the forest area, at an estimated investment of Rs. 12 crore.

Mr. Brajesh Kumar, CEO, CPDL, said, “The project is part of CPDL’s broader efforts to modernise Chandigarh’s electricity distribution infrastructure through technology-driven solutions. The strengthened network will improve operational efficiency, support the city’s growing electricity demand, and contribute towards making Chandigarh a safer, more sustainable and future-ready city. We are focused on continuing to invest in infrastructure that delivers safer, more reliable and better-quality power supply to consumers.”

The underground cable system will significantly enhance the reliability of Chandigarh's electricity network. It will help reduce power interruptions caused by storms, strong winds, uprooting of trees, and other factors.

A key feature of the upgraded network is remotely control RMUs, which will enable load transfer from one feeder to another through remote operations from the CPDL Command Centre in Sector 18. This capability will help minimise the duration and impact of power interruptions and enable faster restoration of supply during contingencies.

The project involved considerable technical and operational challenges, including securing statutory approvals and adhering to security-related restrictions due to the sensitive nature of the area. Despite these challenges, CPDL successfully completed the work while maintaining stringent standards of quality, safety, and operational reliability.

The underground network also offers environmental and aesthetic benefits. The removal of overhead poles and conductors will help create a cleaner and more visually appealing urban landscape, particularly in the vicinity of the Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake. It will also reduce the risk posed by overhead electrical infrastructure to migratory birds and wildlife in the surrounding areas of lake.

As part of its broader commitment to the city's power infrastructure, CPDL has previously outlined Rs. 956-crore investment plan over a span of five years covering network improvement, reliability, smart metering, safety and digital initiatives.

Since taking over the electricity distribution system on 1st February 2025, CPDL has been continuously working on strengthening the city’s power infrastructure while ensuring improved reliability, enhanced safety, and better service for consumers. As part of these efforts, the company has energised four 20 MVA power transformers, 63 distribution transformers and 40 RMUs, while completing 15 km of HT circuits and 25 km of LT circuits. CPDL also operates a 24x7 in-house SCADA Command Centre, enabling real-time network monitoring, power scheduling and remote RMU operations to support faster and more efficient power supply management.

At the conclusion of the event, the vote of thanks was delivered by Senior Advisor, CPDL, Mr Arun Kumar Verma.