Country’s First Underground Power Transformer In Bengaluru Installed

In a groundbreaking moment for the city of Bengaluru, Energy Minister KJ George inaugurated the country’s inaugural underground transformer center, a significant step towards modernizing the city’s power distribution infrastructure. This monumental achievement reflects Bengaluru’s commitment to safety, reliability, and aesthetic enhancement of its urban landscape.

A Milestone in Power Distribution

Located at 15th Avenue, Malleswaram, the underground transformer center is a collaborative effort between the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) and the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). With a budget of Rs 1.98 crore, this pioneering project boasts a 500 KVA capacity transformer. Historically, underground power transformer stations have primarily been found in Western countries, where governments prioritize public convenience and safety.

Beneath the Surface

To ensure the safety and convenience of Bengaluru’s residents, the underground center features a specially constructed chamber beneath the earth’s surface. This chamber is reinforced with a 30 mm cement block, providing a stable foundation for the electrical transformers. At a depth of 10 feet below the road’s surface, this innovative center sets new standards in power distribution. While BESCOM handles the electrical aspects, BBMP is responsible for the civil works. The station includes a 500 KVA capacity oil-free transformer, an 8-way solid-state ring main unit, a 5-way LT distribution box, UPS, a water pump, and an air control system. BBMP contributed Rs 64 lakh to fund the civil works, and the entire project was completed in just 365 days.

Safety and Aesthetics

One of the standout features of this underground center is its safety measures. In the event of repairs or emergencies, there is a dedicated room inside the chamber, ensuring easy access for maintenance personnel. This chamber, designed like a water sump, is enclosed by concrete walls on all sides. As a result, any potential transformer explosion or mishap will not affect pedestrians or traffic above, minimizing the risk of accidents and power failures.

Benefits Beyond Safety and Functionality

This ambitious initiative will not only enhance the safety of the urban environment but also encourage citizens to utilize footpaths without disruptions during maintenance works on overhead cables and related equipment. Moreover, it will protect electrical equipment from the adverse effects of drastic climatic changes, such as extreme cold, heat, and heavy rains.  Beyond its functional benefits, the smart underground distribution infrastructure removes significant visual clutter from the cityscape, thereby improving the overall urban aesthetics.

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