Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh) : The Tawang district administration in Arunachal Pradesh has reviewed preparations for the upcoming winter season, with a focus on strengthening coordination among power agencies and ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply across the district.

A coordination meeting of power-related agencies was held in the office of Deputy Commissioner Tawang, Namgyal Angmo, IAS, to assess the district’s preparedness and discuss measures to address potential power shortages during the winter months.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Department of Power, Department of Hydro Power Development, private hydropower projects, Zilla Parishad Chairperson (ZPC) Tawang Leki Gombu, all Zilla Parishad Members (ZPMs), Bazar Secretaries, Additional Deputy Commissioners of Jang and Lungla, and officials of the district administration.

Assessment of Power Demand and Supply

Executive Engineer (Electrical), Department of Power, Tawang, Er. Sange Phuntso, presented a detailed assessment of electricity demand and availability, both with and without the 33 kV Dukumpani–Tawang power supply. He also outlined proposed load-shedding measures that could be implemented, if required, to manage shortages during peak winter demand.

Representatives of hydropower projects highlighted challenges faced by power developers, particularly inadequate grid infrastructure. They noted that sudden power disruptions often require hydropower units to be synchronised to maintain supply.

The Executive Engineer urged Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members, administrative officers and Bazar Secretaries to sensitise the public, especially owners of commercial buildings and hotels, about the need to minimise the use of high-power-consuming equipment during periods of electricity shortage.

Smart Meter Installation and Public Awareness

The meeting also reviewed the mandatory installation of smart meters under flagship programmes of the Government of India. The department informed participants that installation would be carried out in phases.

ZPMs raised concerns expressed by villagers about increased electricity bills following smart meter installation. They suggested holding another round of awareness meetings to explain how smart meters function, their benefits and the billing mechanism.

Bazar Secretaries informed the meeting that shops and commercial establishments in their respective areas had installed smart meters and were cooperating with the department.

Strengthening Transmission Infrastructure

ZPC Tawang Leki Gombu stressed the need for stronger coordination among hydropower developers and concerned departments to ensure dependable electricity throughout the winter. He urged the department to expedite the commissioning of the Shyaro Hydropower Project and work towards establishing a robust transmission grid between Dirang and Tawang.

He pointed out that heavy snowfall frequently damages or disrupts power lines during winter, forcing maintenance personnel to undertake repairs beyond Sela Pass under difficult conditions. He also emphasised the timely clearance of tree branches obstructing power lines to prevent avoidable outages.

DC Calls for Advance Information on Power Cuts

Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo emphasised proactive planning, effective coordination and timely preparedness to address winter power demand and supply constraints. She said the department was making every possible effort to improve the situation and directed officials to issue advance circulars informing the public about anticipated power cuts and load-shedding schedules.

The Deputy Commissioner observed that recurring power disruptions were largely linked to grid-related constraints, while delays in resolving infrastructure issues were also associated with right-of-way (RoW) and other related challenges. She urged PRI members to inform villagers about the difficulties being faced, encourage cooperation with the department and support measures to improve electricity supply.

Highlighting Tawang’s importance as a major tourist destination, Angmo noted that frequent power cuts during the tourist season and winter months were a concern for both the government and the district administration. She reiterated that efforts were underway to resolve the issues at the earliest and called on all stakeholders to work together towards a sustainable solution.

The meeting concluded with a renewed emphasis on coordination among power-generating agencies, distribution authorities, public representatives and the district administration to strengthen winter preparedness and minimise electricity disruptions.

Ensuring a reliable power supply during the harsh winter months remains a priority for the Tawang district administration, with particular attention to the comfort, safety and overall well-being of residents and visitors.