Lucknow: Despite severe damage caused by the powerful storm and strong winds that struck Uttar Pradesh on the night of May 25-26, the state’s Energy Department managed to restore electricity supply in most affected areas within hours through rapid response measures and alternative power arrangements.
According to officials, several districts including Sitapur, Unnao, Devipatan, Badaun, Bareilly, Basti, Kushinagar, Varanasi and Deoria witnessed major disruptions after high-speed winds damaged power lines, transmission towers and distribution infrastructure.
Among the major transmission systems affected were the 400 KV Bareilly-Unnao Line Circuit I and II, 220 KV Badaun-Roza Line Circuit I and II, 220 KV Bareilly-Dohna Line, 220 KV Parichha-Dunara line in Jhansi, 220 KV Sahoopuri-Raja Ka Talab line in Varanasi, and the Basti-Khalilabad 132 KV Nath Nagar line.
Officials said snapped conductors and damaged towers created large-scale power interruptions in several regions. However, under the continuous supervision and monitoring of Uttar Pradesh Energy Minister A.K. Sharma, transmission and distribution teams immediately launched restoration work on a war footing.
Engineers, field staff and electricity department personnel reportedly worked throughout the night in difficult weather conditions to repair damaged infrastructure and restore supply. The department also ensured electricity supply through alternative sources wherever possible to minimise inconvenience to consumers.
The storm had impacted a total of 139 substations connected to the 33 KV distribution network, while nearly 1,500 electricity poles were either damaged or uprooted. Officials stated that by Thursday morning, power supply had already been restored to 133 substations, while work on the remaining six substations was nearing completion.
According to the department, electricity supply in most affected regions was restored within a few hours, while remaining areas saw restoration within 24 hours despite the scale of the natural disruption.
The Energy Department said the swift response demonstrated the government’s commitment to maintaining uninterrupted power supply and highlighted the technical efficiency and dedication of field workers during emergency situations.
Minister Sharma continuously reviewed the situation and directed officials to ensure there was no laxity in restoration efforts. He also appealed to the public to remain patient and avoid paying attention to misleading reports or misinformation, assuring citizens that the government and the Energy Department remain fully committed to maintaining smooth electricity services under all circumstances.
