Bhopal: Illegal excavation near high-tension electricity transmission towers across Madhya Pradesh, including in Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, and other regions, has become a significant concern as the storm season approaches. Officials warn that weakened tower foundations could lead to widespread power failures and potential loss of life during strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Complaints Across Multiple Districts
Complaints about digging and murum excavation dangerously close to extra-high-tension (EHT) towers have been reported from several districts, including Gwalior, Jabalpur, Shajapur, Indore, and Khandwa. Sources indicate similar issues have emerged in areas under the Bhopal, Ujjain, and Rewa transmission divisions, where excavation activities allegedly persist despite repeated warnings.
Expert Concerns on Structural Stability
Power sector experts emphasize that transmission towers rely entirely on the strength and stability of the surrounding soil. Removal of earth near tower bases can undermine foundations, significantly increasing the risk of towers tilting or collapsing during storms.
Officials at MP Transco confirmed receiving complaints from multiple locations regarding illegal excavation near transmission infrastructure. D.K. Agrawal, chief engineer of extra-high-tension line maintenance at MP Power Transmission Company, stated, “Such activities have weakened the structural stability of towers, raising the possibility of collapse during storms, strong winds, or heavy rainfall. Any such incident could endanger lives and cause prolonged power disruptions across large areas.”
Statewide Inspection Drive Planned
Following these 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 detailed reports.
Sources note that while power demand and transmission infrastructure have expanded rapidly in recent years, the maintenance workforce has sharply reduced, hampering regular monitoring of critical installations. Experts warn that any compromise in the safety of the transmission network, which serves as the backbone of electricity supply to millions, could trigger a major power crisis during extreme weather conditions.
