West Bengal Prepares for 21% Spike in Power Demand During Durga Puja, Ensures Seamless Supply – EQ
In Short : West Bengal anticipates a 21% surge in power demand during Durga Puja, with peak load expected to reach 12,050 MW. To ensure uninterrupted supply, the state has deployed 79,414 personnel, 3,700 mobile vans, and a 24×7 control room. Financial grants of ₹1.10 lakh to each Puja committee support festival preparations, reflecting the government’s commitment to energy reliability and cultural celebrations.
In Detail : West Bengal is preparing for a significant increase in power demand during the upcoming Durga Puja festival. State Power Minister Aroop Biswas announced that peak electricity demand is expected to reach 12,050 MW on Tritiya, a 21% rise compared to last year’s 9,912 MW on Chaturthi. This surge reflects the growing scale of celebrations across the state.
The rise in electricity demand is driven by the increasing number of devotees and tourists participating in festivities. Temporary power connections for Durga Puja have surged over the years, reflecting both higher consumption and the expanding number of pandals and organizers. This trend emphasizes the importance of robust power infrastructure during major festivals.
To manage the anticipated load, the state has implemented several measures. A special 24×7 control room will operate throughout the festival to monitor and manage power distribution. Residents can report power issues via the toll-free number 19121 or through designated helpline numbers for different areas, ensuring swift resolution of disruptions.
Around 79,414 personnel will be on duty during the festival, supported by nearly 3,700 mobile vans. This extensive workforce is part of the state’s strategy to guarantee uninterrupted power supply. The deployment ensures that any emergencies or technical issues are addressed promptly across all districts and major festival sites.
Minister Biswas emphasized that both the state electricity board and CESC are fully prepared to meet the power supply requirements. Contingency plans have been put in place to handle any unexpected disruptions. The government’s proactive approach aims to prevent outages that could affect the smooth conduct of Durga Puja celebrations.
The rising demand highlights the state’s efforts to enhance energy infrastructure. In recent years, West Bengal has undertaken significant projects to improve generation and distribution capacities. These initiatives ensure that the state can meet growing electricity needs during festivals and support industrial, commercial, and residential power consumption.
Financial support for festival organizers is also being provided. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced grants of ₹1.10 lakh to each registered Durga Puja committee this year. This assistance helps committees manage expenses related to pandal construction, decorations, lighting, and other festival logistics.
The financial aid allows organizers to focus on the cultural and spiritual aspects of the festival without worrying about operational or logistical challenges. It reflects the government’s commitment to supporting community celebrations while ensuring that infrastructure and resources are in place for a successful event.
As Durga Puja approaches, West Bengal’s comprehensive preparations underscore its commitment to providing a seamless festival experience. By addressing both electricity supply and financial support, the state aims to celebrate Durga Puja with grandeur and devotion, ensuring a safe, joyous, and uninterrupted experience for residents and visitors alike.
