Kolkata, Sept. 9 -- The Suvendu Adhikari government is planning to convert the overhead power distribution network into an underground system in popular tourist destinations such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong and Mirik.
A central grant of Rs 2,014-crore will be utilised to implement the project. It will be taken up in 16 towns across Bengal. West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Co Ltd (WBSEDCL) will float the tender before Durga Puja.
According to sources, work is expected to commence in January 2027. The project will be fully funded by the Centre from its Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme. Besides Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong and Mirik, the project will be carried out in other cities like Mayapur, Contai, Egra, Midnapur, Jhargram, Bankura, Burdwan, Suri, Balurghat, Alipurduar, Jaigaon and Jalpaiguri.
WBSEDCL has recently completed the construction of underground power distribution networks in Chandernagore, Rajarhat, Kharagpur and Baruipur. The work is near completion in Asansol and Siliguri.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.