TPSODL strengthens power network in remote areas of Malkangiri in Odisha

Bhubaneswar, Aug 27 (UNI) TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL) has undertaken a series of initiatives to strengthen the power distribution network in Malkangiri, one of Odisha’s most remote districts.
The measures, implemented over the past few months, aim to overcome recurring supply disruptions and provide a more reliable power backbone for rural households and critical services.
Malkangiri has long posed operational challenges due to its geographical terrain and scattered population. To address these, TPSODL has carried out systematic upgrades across substations, feeders, and distribution lines.
At the K. Gumma substation, redundancy has been added to eliminate risks linked to single-transformer dependency—reducing the chances of large-scale outages and ensuring continuous power supply.
In Balimela and Maithili, transformer capacities have been upgraded to 5 MVA, strengthening load management and meeting rising consumer demand.
Power reliability at the 33 kV level has also improved through feeder strengthening and enhanced connectivity. This includes linking Khairaput School to a dedicated line and reinforcing supply in areas around the Chitrakonda reservoir, which often face seasonal challenges.
Additionally, TPSODL has extended and reinforced 11 kV lines to reach deeper into habitations such as K. Gumma, Chitrakonda, Pandripani, Bajrangi Colony, and Bandiguda. These upgrades are designed to improve last-mile delivery and shorten restoration time during breakdowns or natural disturbances.
According to TPSODL, reliable electricity is enabling households to access quality lighting and domestic services, schools and hostels to function smoothly, and anganwadis and health centres to operate without disruption.

Agricultural pumps and small businesses are also benefiting from the improved stability of supply, boosting livelihoods and local economic activity.

For the tribal communities of Malkangiri—including the Koya, Bhumia, Paraja, Bonda, and Didayi—these improvements are expected to make a substantial impact. Access to dependable power will serve as a key enabler of education, healthcare, social welfare schemes, and income-generation activities.

Executive Officer of TPSODL, Amit Kumar Garg, said, “Malkangiri’s geography presents unique challenges for power distribution.

Through systematic upgrades, we are building a resilient network that supports education, healthcare, livelihoods, and community development,” he said, adding that reliable power supply is not just about electricity—it is about empowering people and enabling progress.”
The upgrades in Malkangiri are part of TPSODL’s broader mandate to ensure safe, reliable, and quality power supply across Southern Odisha.
A joint venture between Tata Power and the Government of Odisha, TPSODL continues to reinforce its commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development.