Illegal digging near power towers raises blackout fears: Discom

Bhopal: Illegal excavation near high-tension electricity transmission towers in Madhya Pradesh, including in Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior and other parts, has emerged as a major concern ahead of the storm season, with officials warning that weakened tower foundations could trigger large-scale power outages and even loss of life during strong winds and heavy rainfall.Complaints regarding digging and murum excavation dangerously close to extra-high-tension (EHT) towers have been reported from several parts of the state, including Gwalior, Jabalpur, Shajapur, Indore and Khandwa districts. Sources said similar concerns have also surfaced in areas falling under Bhopal, Ujjain and Rewa transmission divisions, where excavation activities are allegedly continuing despite repeated warnings.Power sector experts say transmission towers depend entirely on the strength and stability of the surrounding soil. Removal of earth near tower bases can weaken foundations and significantly increase the risk of towers tilting or collapsing during storms.Officials in MP Transco confirmed that complaints have been received from multiple locations regarding illegal excavation activities near transmission infrastructure. “Such activities have weakened the structural stability of towers, increasing the possibility of collapse during storms, strong winds or heavy rainfall. Any such incident may not only endanger lives but can also result in prolonged power disruptions across large areas,” said D.K. Agrawal, chief engineer, extra-high-tension line maintenance, MP Power Transmission Company.Following the reports, MP Transco headquarters has gone on alert and is preparing to launch a statewide inspection drive. Regional officials have been directed to conduct surveys around vulnerable towers and submit reports.Sources say that while power demand and transmission infrastructure have expanded rapidly over the years, the maintenance workforce has sharply reduced, affecting regular monitoring of critical installations. Experts warned that any compromise in the safety of the transmission network, which forms the backbone of electricity supply to millions, could lead to a major power crisis during extreme weather conditions.