Bihar Gears Up for Chhath Mahaparva: Energy Department Ensures Uninterrupted Power Supply at Ghats

By Chirag Gupta

Patna: In preparation for the upcoming Chhath Mahaparva, Bihar’s Energy Department has made extensive arrangements to ensure uninterrupted and safe power supply at Chhath Ghats across the state. During a review meeting held at Vidyut Bhawan on Friday, Energy Secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal assessed the department’s readiness for the festival. Present at the meeting were Managing Director of South Bihar Power Distribution Company Mahendra Kumar, directors of both Discoms, and other senior officials. Superintending Engineers and Executive Engineers participated via video conferencing.

The department has nearly completed the reinforcement of electrical infrastructure supporting Chhath Ghats. The MRT team has inspected 33kV and 11kV breakers at relevant power substations, while repairs and maintenance of 33kV and 11kV lines and Distribution Sub-Stations (DSS) are progressing swiftly. Safety measures include replacing worn-out wires, upgrading 11kV bare conductors with AB cables along routes to the ghats, and installing fencing around transformers near the ghats for added protection.

To manage emergencies, a 24×7 control room has been set up, with additional personnel deployed to oversee power supply operations. A state-level control room has also been established at the State Load Dispatch Center, where transformers and necessary equipment are readily available for immediate replacements. Temporary fuse call teams will be stationed at Chhath Ghats to handle any power issues, and district-level WhatsApp groups have been created to facilitate efficient communication.

The department has issued guidelines for temporary electricity connections to ensure safe, rule-compliant installations for pandal operators, with specific safety measures in place for lighting along ghat routes. A headquarters-based inspection team has been assigned to monitor Chhath power supply preparations across regions, and North Bihar has been directed to complete any remaining work by Sunday.

Energy Secretary and BSPHCL CMD Pankaj Kumar Pal stressed that ensuring safe and continuous power for devotees during Chhath Mahaparva is the department’s top priority. Adequate resources and teams have been mobilized to guarantee a secure and smooth experience for all those celebrating the festival.