Bhubaneswar, 30/07/2025 : The Odisha government is asking the central government for urgent help to build a stronger and safer power system that can survive natural disasters like cyclones and floods.
Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo met Union Power Minister Manohar Lal in New Delhi on Tuesday. He requested early approval of ₹3,069 crore under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). The funds will be used to upgrade power infrastructure and install smart meters across the state.
The RDSS is a central government program aimed at improving power supply and reducing electricity losses across India. It supports projects that help modernize power distribution and promote better energy use.
Officials say Odisha’s location makes it vulnerable to frequent natural disasters, especially cyclones. These storms often damage electric poles, wires, and transformers, leading to long power cuts and putting lives at risk.
To solve this problem, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) has suggested building stronger, disaster-proof power systems in the state. One idea is to lay underground power cables, especially in areas within 30 kilometers of the coastline, where cyclones hit the hardest.
Deputy CM Singh Deo emphasized that this support is urgently needed. “We must act fast to protect our power network and ensure people are not left in the dark after every storm,” he said.
He also asked the Centre for more electricity to meet Odisha’s growing needs. Singh Deo requested an additional 800 megawatts (MW) of power from the NLC Talabira Phase-II project, adding to the 400 MW already given to the state from Phase-I. If approved, Odisha would receive a total of 1,200 MW from this large project, which has a full capacity of 3,200 MW.
“With more industries and homes needing power every day, this extra supply will help us meet demand without interruption,” he said.
Singh Deo said that the state is committed to reforms and better service, and the requested funds and power will support those goals. “Odisha is ready to take strong steps. We just need the Centre’s help to make our power system safe, modern, and ready for the future,” he added.
The state government hopes the Centre will quickly approve the financial help and power allocation so work can begin as soon as possible.
This move shows how Odisha is planning ahead—not just to provide electricity, but to protect it during times when people need it most.
