The extensive flooding in Punjab has inflicted a heavy toll on the state’s power infrastructure, with the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) reporting estimated losses exceeding ₹102 crore. This figure, a preliminary assessment from the PSPCL head office in Patiala, underscores the severity of the damage caused by heavy rains and overflowing rivers like the Sutlej and Beas.
A detailed report from PSPCL outlines the specific areas of financial impact. The largest single loss, amounting to ₹62.5 crore, was recorded at the Upper Beas Diversion Channel (UBDC) Hydel Power Project in Pathankot, highlighting the vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure to natural disasters. The report also sheds light on the widespread destruction of power distribution networks across the state. A staggering 2,322 distribution transformers were damaged, leading to an estimated loss of ₹23.22 crore. Furthermore, 7,114 electricity poles were either damaged or completely washed away, a loss valued at ₹3.56 crore.
The damage extends to the intricate web of conductors and cables, with approximately 864 kilometers of these lines sustaining damage, resulting in losses of ₹4.32 crore. Allied line equipment, including insulators and fittings, contributed an additional ₹3.36 crore to the total damages. The physical infrastructure of PSPCL, such as office buildings, furniture, and control room equipment, was not spared, with reported damages totaling ₹2.61 crore. Within the control rooms themselves, components like vacuum circuit breakers, relays, and batteries suffered significant damage, costing around ₹46 lakh. Civil infrastructure at grid substations, including boundary walls and control room buildings, also faced damages valued at ₹2.55 crore.
A PSPCL spokesperson confirmed that teams are being actively mobilized to restore power, with priority being given to the most severely flood-hit areas. The immediate focus is on replacing damaged transformers and poles and repairing critical infrastructure to reconnect affected communities. The spokesperson added that a more comprehensive reassessment of the damages will be conducted once the floodwaters have fully receded. This ongoing effort to repair and rebuild highlights the significant challenges faced by the state in restoring normalcy following the widespread natural calamity, and the immense financial burden it places on public utilities.
