New Delhi, Dec 26 (UNI) The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) is gearing up for a major upgrade of electricity and water supply systems in the New Delhi area in the coming year, Vice Chairperson Kuljeet Singh Chahal said on Friday.
Speaking at a press briefing at Palika Kendra, Chahal said a set of proposals linked to strengthening basic services will be placed before the next NDMC Council meeting.
Chahal said the electricity network in the NDMC area is very old, with several high-tension (HT) and low-tension (LT) panels running beyond their service life. Some equipment dates back to the pre-Independence period, while three major 30 MVA transformers have also become outdated, putting pressure on the system and increasing the risk of long power cuts.
To address this, NDMC is implementing the Centre’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). Under the scheme, work is underway on appointment of a Project Management Agency, replacement of old 11 kV panels, and installation of new high-tech systems.
He said NDMC, which covers a high-security and VIP zone with the President’s and Prime Minister’s offices, central ministries and foreign embassies, cannot afford power disruptions. Under RDSS, NDMC is receiving financial support from the Ministry of Power and PFC.
The Council had already approved the appointment of Rodic Consultants Pvt Ltd as the project management agency earlier this month.
Chahal said around 4,400 HT panels are installed across the NDMC area, most of them based on outdated bulk oil circuit breaker technology. Many of these panels are nearly 45 years old, far beyond their normal life of 25-30 years.
In Phase-I, NDMC plans to replace 829 old 11 kV panels on priority. The new gas-insulated technology panels are safer, take less space and are more environment-friendly. The project will be funded with 60% support from the Ministry of Power and 40% from NDMC, and the work will be awarded to the lowest bidder after Council approval.
On the water supply front, Chahal said NDMC plans to set up a round-the-clock water supply control room at Old RK Ashram Marg. The single-storey RCC structure will include an underground water tank with a capacity of one lakh litres. The project is estimated to cost Rs. 5.24 crore.
Once operational, the control room is expected to cut down water-related complaints and help NDMC manage supply better, even during shortages from the Delhi Jal Board.
He added that NDMC currently operates 23 water trolleys and is in the process of procuring 12 new 9 KL water tankers through the GeM portal. Eight 10 KL tankers are also being run on rent for nine months to meet demand.
Chahal also said a proposal to replace old cast iron pipelines with ductile iron pipelines in the Pandara Road area will be placed before the Council. The area has been facing frequent complaints of contaminated water, leakages and pipe bursts. The project will cost Rs. 8.01 crore.
After completion, the entire water supply system in the area will be modernised, leading to cleaner water, fewer leaks, less wastage and relief from pollution-related issues.
Chahal said all these proposals aim to improve everyday civic services for residents and visitors in the NDMC area and are expected to be taken up together in the forthcoming Council meeting.
