Underground power cables likely to rid Vizag core area of electric poles by December 2026
A large part of power network in the core city area of Visakhapatnam will soon be free of electric poles, if the underground cable laying gets completed as per schedule by December 2026.
After witnessing the success of phase I of the underground power cabling, which was undertaken after Cyclone Hudhud laid poles to waste in October 2014, A.P. Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) is currently taking the project forward by laying underground base for a distance of 876 km under phase II at an investment of ₹973 crore as part of the Centre's Renovated Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
The RDSS is aimed to improve the performance and efficiency of power sector in the country. The objectives include reducing AT&C (Integrated Technical and Commercial) losses, improving the quality and reliability of power supply and making the power distribution sector financially sustainable.
Phase II was sanctioned last year, but work only began this financial year. Unlike the phase I, which provided underground network for 33kV, 11kV and LT lines, the phase II will cover only 33kV and 11kV lines up to the end of distribution transformers. The total project cost has been divided into ₹340 crore for the 33kV line and ₹633 crore for the 11kV line.
The works, began in the summer of 2025, progressed well with no rain hampering it. During this southwest monsoon, progress could be slowed or the work interrupted. However, the authorities plan to expedite the work after the onset of winter, completing the project by December 2026.
Speaking to The Hindu, APEPDCL superintending engineer for Visakhapatnanm district G. Shyambabu said only 33kV and 11kV lines will be covered in phase II. 'We will not take up LT lines (i.e. supply to domestic consumers) as was done in phase I. The underground cables were laid on every street and corner in phase I. However, proposals have been sent to the higher-ups to include the LT lines as well.'
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