AP Approves ₹521.58 Crore Power Upgrade for Godavari Pushkaralu 2027

The Andhra Pradesh Government has approved ₹521.58 crore worth of power infrastructure projects under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the Akhanda Godavari Maha Pushkaralu-2027, while simultaneously strengthening the state's power distribution network for the long term. The move comes as authorities prepare for one of India's largest religious gatherings, expected to attract nearly one crore devotees every day during the 12-day festival from June 26 to July 7, 2027.

The approvals were granted by the State Distribution Reforms Committee (SDRC) chaired by Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad, with Special Chief Secretary (Energy) K. Vijayanand in attendance. Officials noted that the last Godavari Pushkaram in 2015 witnessed over 11 crore pilgrim visits, highlighting the scale of infrastructure needed for the upcoming event.

Of the total allocation, ₹345 crore will be spent on strengthening power infrastructure in Rajamahendravaram, Konaseema, Kakinada and West Godavari districts, where Rajamahendravaram alone is expected to record an additional 100 MW electricity demand during the pilgrimage. The works include construction of new 33/11-kV substations, additional 33-kV and 11-kV power lines, transformer augmentation and other distribution upgrades to support ghats, pilgrim camps, hospitals, traffic management systems, CCTV surveillance and essential public services. The Chief Secretary directed officials to complete and fully test all facilities before the festival begins.

The committee also approved ₹176 crore for upgrading the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system in Visakhapatnam and establishing a new SCADA network in Rajamahendravaram. The digital system enables real-time monitoring of substations, remote operation, faster fault detection and quicker restoration of power supply, improving the state's ability to manage electricity during large-scale events.

Reviewing other RDSS works, the committee assessed progress in agricultural feeder segregation, bifurcation of overloaded feeders, underground cabling in Visakhapatnam, and the Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider (AMISP) project, which has achieved about 81% completion. Citing delays caused by GIS surveys, right-of-way issues, statutory approvals, adverse weather and supply-chain disruptions, the committee extended RDSS and AMISP contracts until March 31, 2027.

Launched by the Union Government in 2021 with an outlay of over ₹3 lakh crore, RDSS aims to modernise India's power distribution sector by reducing technical losses, deploying smart meters and strengthening distribution infrastructure. Officials said Andhra Pradesh's investment will not only ensure seamless power supply during the Akhanda Godavari Maha Pushkaralu-2027 but also leave behind a modern, technology-driven and resilient electricity network that benefits consumers, agriculture and industry across the state.