Assam: Rs 2,500 crore underground cabling project to make Guwahati ‘wireless’

Guwahati, July 10 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday announced a Rs 2,500 crore project to shift Guwahati’s overhead power distribution network underground, saying the initiative will transform the city into a “wireless” urban centre with a modern, safer and more reliable electricity infrastructure.

Speaking to reporters after Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah presented the 2026-27 Assam Budget in the Assembly, Sarma said the ambitious project forms part of the government’s long-term vision to modernise Guwahati’s urban infrastructure and improve the quality of life for residents.

“Guwahati will soon be wireless. A Rs 2,500 crore project will be undertaken to take all overhead power lines underground,” the Chief Minister said.

According to the Budget proposals, the project envisages the phased conversion of the city’s overhead electricity distribution network to an underground cabling system, reducing storm-related outages, improving public safety, and enhancing the city’s overall aesthetics.

Sarma said the initiative would significantly strengthen the reliability of power supply while protecting electricity infrastructure from weather-related disruptions, a recurring challenge in the state during heavy rains and storms.

The first phase of the project will be taken up under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), with an allocation of Rs 200 crore to cover five major corridors in Guwahati.

Based on the outcome of the initial phase, the underground cabling network will be expanded across the city in phases.

The Chief Minister said the project would also help decongest urban spaces by removing overhead electric poles and wires, creating safer roads and improving the city’s visual landscape.

He said the underground power network is part of the government’s broader strategy to develop Guwahati into a modern metropolitan city through sustained investments in transport, energy, urban planning and digital infrastructure.

The Budget presented by Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah places significant emphasis on infrastructure development, with major investments proposed in power, connectivity, healthcare and urban development.

Sarma said the underground cabling project reflects the government’s commitment to creating resilient, future-ready infrastructure capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly expanding urban population while ensuring an uninterrupted electricity supply for households, businesses and public institutions.

–IANS

tdr/dan