Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday called for construction of power infrastructure in such a way that it can withstand massive cyclones like Hudhud in future. The Chief Minister held a review meeting with Energy Department officials on restoration of power infrastructure in the areas that were affected by Hudhud cyclone in north coastal Andhra Pradesh.
Keeping in view the difficulties and damage suffered by the power sector, Mr. Naidu insisted on preparation of a master plan for reconstruction of infrastructure that can withstand any type of natural calamities in future by considering the establishment of an Emergency Restoration System (ERS) in cities like Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Ongole and Nellore, laying of underground cables in coastal areas etc. and construction of gas-insulated substations in the cyclone-prone areas.
By taking these measures, Mr. Naidu said the scope for damage of basic power sector infrastructure could be reduced to the maximum extent possible and help authorities in restoring any disruption of power supply within 24 hours.
The Chief Minister instructed the officials to seek advices from energy experts from across the world and consult reputed companies for arriving at the best possible solutions. As Andhra Pradesh State has a lengthy coast line, more care should be taken so that the system must withstand heavy gale and wind velocity, he said and wanted a thorough study of statistics of previous cyclones and their intensity.
He further ordered Secretary (CMO) G. Sai Prasad and Energy Secretary Ajay Jain to study and incorporate the latest practices adopted by countries like USA, Canada and Japan etc. in the master plan by imagining the worst-case scenario.
