New 132 kV Double-Circuit Line Commissioned to Improve Tribal Belt Power Supply

The Chhattisgarh State Power Transmission Company Limited (CSPTCL) has inaugurated a 60-kilometer, 132-kV double-circuit transmission line between Dongargaon and Mohla, aimed at strengthening power supply in forested, tribal regions. Built at a cost of approximately ₹6 crore, the new line is expected to benefit more than 250 villages which previously suffered frequent power outages and voltage fluctuations. Officials explained that until now, Mohla substation had only a single-circuit connection, which made it vulnerable to failures and caused interruptions in supply, especially during monsoon storms and high load periods. With the double-circuit configuration, reliability will be greatly enhanced. Redundancy in the system will allow maintenance without total shutdowns, and can better handle demand surges. The project also addresses long-standing concerns over rural development: better electricity availability is seen as key to improving irrigation, enabling small-scale industries, and facilitating improved household amenities. For many tribal households, consistent power supply had been a limiting factor in education, health care, and livelihoods. CSPTCL’s Managing Director, Rajesh Kumar Shukla, said the new infrastructure is a “crucial milestone” for underserved communities. Despite challenging terrain, forest cover, and sometimes poor access roads, engineering teams completed construction, including foundational work, erection of towers, stringing of conductors, and installation of safety equipment. Local governments now plan to coordinate with the power utility to ensure line maintenance schedules, and to inform communities about usage norms. There will also be measures for ensuring minimal forest impact and protection of wildlife, given that many transmission towers cross sensitive ecological zones. Residents in the region have expressed relief, anticipating more stable lighting, fewer disruptions, and a boost to far-reaching services.