ADB approves $200m fund for power supply upgrades in Uttarakhand

The funding will install a 537-kilometre-long underground cable system.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a $200m loan for the improvement of the quality and efficiency of the power supply in Uttarakhand, India.

The new project will enhance the power network infrastructure in the city of Dehradun, establishing an underground cable system with 537 km of subterranean cables, 354 ring main units, and 99 compact substations.

It will also cover the installation of upstream substations and associated power lines to improve the current system, meet the growing demand, lessen network congestion, and prompt seamless distribution in both urban and suburban areas.

With its economic benefits and access to renewables, the project is expected to draw female-led self-help groups from rural districts. It will also provide training programs for communities, focusing on energy conservation and business management skills, whilst also conducting awareness and educational activities in schools to promote opportunities for employment in the energy sector.

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ADB also backed the capacity expansion of the Power Transmission Corporation of Uttarakhand Limited and the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited. And, in cooperation with local non-governmental organisations, it will hold training programmes about energy conservation and business management for nearby communities.

“Rehabilitating, upgrading, and modernizing power facilities will contribute to improving lives and sustaining economic growth in the state,” Jaimes Kolantharaj, senior energy specialist at ADB, stated.

Meanwhile, the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific has also provided a $2m grant for the support of livelihood, training, and awareness-raising activities of the project.