The Maharashtra government has instructed power authorities to fast-track electricity infrastructure upgrades across Panvel and its surrounding growth centres, with a focus on improving supply reliability and preparing for future demand arising from rapid urban expansion.
A review meeting chaired by Meghna Sakore-Bordikar in Mumbai examined recurring power supply issues affecting both urban and rural areas of Panvel taluka. The discussions centred on strengthening the electricity distribution network in rapidly developing localities such as Panvel, Khandeshwar, Kamothe, Kalamboli and Kharghar.
During the meeting, the minister directed Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited to formulate a comprehensive long-term strategy that factors in projected population growth and the increasing number of electricity consumers across the region. Officials were asked to ensure that infrastructure expansion keeps pace with urbanisation and prevents future supply bottlenecks.
The government also instructed power authorities to conduct immediate inspections of vulnerable sections within the network and undertake corrective measures wherever required. The objective is to improve reliability and minimise disruptions in areas witnessing rising residential and commercial development.
In a stern warning, Sakore-Bordikar stated that contractors responsible for poor-quality work in MSEDCL substations within the Panvel Municipal Corporation jurisdiction could face blacklisting if deficiencies are found during inspections.
Particular attention was given to Kamothe, where residents have repeatedly reported power outages. Officials were directed to expedite the commissioning of a new 5 MVA transformer and complete the installation of additional transformers planned for the locality to stabilise the electricity supply.
The minister also ordered the immediate launch of cable infrastructure works in Kalamboli and called for detailed safety audits to identify weak points within the distribution network and address them on priority.
The meeting was attended by legislators, municipal representatives and senior MSEDCL officials, who reviewed measures aimed at enhancing capacity, improving infrastructure resilience and ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply across one of the fastest-growing urban corridors within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Source: Swarajya
