PRESS
NOTE :
1. Preparations prior to Cyclone
1.1 Based
on IMD information extensive prior preparations were undertaken to tackle the
effects of Cyclone Phailin in the context of power requirements.
Worst estimated districts were 3 in AP (Srikakulam, Vijanagram and Vishakhapatnam) and 14 in Odisha (9 coastal / 5 interior).
1.2 Advance
preparations were made to manage generation and load balance for unhindered and
secure grid operation. Power stations monitored: AP - Simhadri
and Vijayawada (both state government). In Odisha - Talcher (NTPC) and 4 state hydro stations (Machkund,
Balimelam Upper Sileru and
Lower Sileru).
1.3 Important
inter-state transmission lines, connecting Eastern to the southern region: the
2000MW Talcher-Kolar HVDC link and the 1000 MW Gazuwaka HVDC link were specifically secured for smooth
operation by load simulation studies. Also 3 Emergency Restoration Systems
(ERS) of PGCIL were put on standby readiness in AP and Odisha
for quick deployment in the event of damage.
1.4 As
Distribution network of 33/11kv and 132 kv
was to be most affected and as the same is under state government control,
required Round-the-Clock 24 hour coordination mechanism was set up. For this a
24 hour operating Control Centre was set up in the Ministry itself at the
National Power Monitoring Centre (NPMC). The National Load Dispatch Centre
under the control of POSOCO was operating 24 hrs and in touch with the regional
dispatch centres of POSOCO and the state load dispatch centre
(SLDC). A high level team headed by Additional Secretary in the Ministry was
coordinating all the steps required including 2 hourly reports to all
concerned.
1. Post Cyclone status and management
2.1 As
required load and generation were managed in a balanced manner so as to secure
stable transmission frequency. Load was not much affected
in AP (about 9000MW against normal demand of 10,000MW). In Odisha,
it was reduced to about 22% to 25%, - about 600MW (normal demand 2800MW).
2.2 Interruptions
in the Talcher-Kolar HVDC link at 3 locations around
23 hours / 01.19 hours on 12.10.13 / 13.10.13, were
restored in very short time of less than 30 minutes. Also the southern
connection was maintained through the alternate path of 1000MW Gazuwaka HVDC back to back link. No AC PGCIL line tripped.
However upto 7 lines of 400kV, 17 lines of 220kV and
19 lines of 132kV have been affected concerning the state grid. This affected
the power supply in the state. Presently all inter-state links to south are
working (3000MW capacity out of 4000MW reported).
2.3 Substantial
damage to the 33/11kV distribution network in the coastal districts is
reported. On request of the state
government, Ministry has directed all assistance to the state government for
this task. In fact required gangs of men and material have been dispatched
including ERS for line restoration from Mendhashal to
Ganjam area already. Further 180 personnel from
PGCIL, REC, NTPC, NHPC etc have been put
at the disposal of the state government
to assist in re-erction of the lines and damaged
substations.
2.4 Some
portion of the railway track in NTPC’s Talcher plant
area was flooded causing disruption in coal transport. Steps are underway to
pump water out. It is expected that power should be getting restored today
itself.
2.5 Constant
vigil is being maintained and Round the clock control room at the Ministry –
NPMC – is in touch with all concerned. We expect the power infrastructure to be
reasonably restored in the next 24 hours or so. Appreciation is due to the
extensive efforts by all concerned in the transmission and generation of power
for successful tackling of the cyclone.
------------------------------------------------------------