Amaravati, March 5 (NationPress) The government of Andhra Pradesh has embarked on a significant initiative, launching power infrastructure projects valued at ₹6,000 crore to address the escalating demand for electricity.

During a session in the Assembly, Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar disclosed that new substations are under construction in regions facing substantial electricity load.

In response to inquiries from MLAs Aditi Vijayalakshmi Gajapathiraju, Kolla Lalitha Kumari, and Muttumula Ashok Reddy, the minister revealed that the government has recognized the necessity for over 200 additional 33/11 kV substations in high-demand areas and is taking appropriate measures for their establishment.

The minister clarified that the influx of industries following the coalition government led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has notably increased power consumption, with projections indicating a rise from 263 million units to approximately 280 million units daily.

In light of this growing demand, the government is actively enhancing power generation and constructing 400 kV, 220 kV, and 132 kV substations throughout the state. He also noted that numerous agricultural electricity connections have been provided to farmers, contributing to increased power consumption driven by expanding commercial, industrial, and residential needs.

The minister stressed that the state government's primary aim is to ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply across the state in the years to come. To accommodate future demand and load growth, the government is proceeding with the construction of 33/11 kV substations and power lines in all necessary locations.

He mentioned that the construction of the Venugopalapuram substation in Vizianagaram district is presently undergoing the re-tendering process, with an assurance that completion will occur by March 2027. The minister also informed the assembly that works related to 220 kV and 132 kV lines worth ₹46 crore in Vizianagaram district are already finished and ready for activation. Furthermore, efforts for the Venugopalapuram substation are advancing with an investment of ₹77 crore.

MLA Aditi Gajapathi Raju proposed that the government consider implementing an underground cabling system in Vizianagaram, similar to that of Visakhapatnam. The minister responded by stating that while underground cabling is a costly endeavor, the proposal would be evaluated based on the availability of funds and its necessity.

MLA Muttumula Ashok Reddy also urged the establishment of a 220 kV substation in the Giddalur constituency. The minister assured that appropriate measures would be taken based on the feasibility report prepared by the Energy department officials.