The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to improve the power supply in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
A release by ADB mentioned that the project will modernize Dehradun city’s power network infrastructure by introducing an advanced and climate-resilient underground cable system comprising 537 kilometers of subterranean cables, 354 ring main units, and 99 compact substations.
“This project will help the state in achieving its goal of providing 24x7 power to its residents and transitioning to the use of clean energy,” said Jaimes Kolantharaj, ADB senior energy specialist.
“Rehabilitating, upgrading, and modernizing power facilities will contribute to improving lives and sustaining economic growth in the state,” he added.
Additionally, the project will enhance the current power system by installing upstream substations and their associated power lines that will help meet increasing electricity demand, reduce network congestion, and improve power distribution reliability in urban and suburban areas.
It will also help to empower women self-help groups in rural hilly districts, providing them with access to renewable energy sources and energy-efficient equipment to enhance their livelihoods.
ADB will facilitate training programs for communities, focusing on energy conservation and business management skills, while also conducting awareness and educational activities in schools to promote opportunities for employment in the energy sector.
The project will involve nongovernmental organizations in implementing and monitoring the livelihood activities. The Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific, financed by the Government of Japan through ADB, will provide a $2 million grant to support livelihood enhancement, training, and awareness-raising activities of the project.
The bank will support the capacity development of the Power Transmission Corporation of Uttarakhand Limited and the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited by conducting leadership courses and project management programs to develop climate-resilient power sector projects.
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