This initiative follows MP Transco’s recent use of drones for inspecting extra-high tension lines, reflecting the company’s growing reliance on advanced technology for security
In a major push to safeguard its extra-high voltage substations across Madhya Pradesh, the Madhya Pradesh Power Transmission Company (MP Transco) has initiated the installation of high-definition CCTV cameras at strategic locations statewide. With an investment of Rs 8.15 crore, this technology-driven security measure is part of a larger plan to protect essential power grid infrastructure from theft and vandalism.
In the first phase, MP Transco plans to deploy cameras at around 250 substations, including four in Indore. The CCTV systems are expected to save on labor costs associated with manual patrols and security, while providing a double layer of protection for critical assets.
This initiative follows MP Transco’s recent use of drones for inspecting extra-high tension lines, reflecting the company’s growing reliance on advanced technology for security and operational efficiency.
The decision to install cameras is a response to a rise in thefts targeting copper neutral strips, a critical component of transformers. “Thieves are targeting these copper strips, which, while of little value to them, are essential for transformers,” said MP Transco Managing Director Sunil Tiwari. He explained that the removal of these strips poses a danger to the thieves themselves, while also risking costly damage to the equipment and potential power disruptions for consumers.
“Transformers are built to order, so if theft leads to damage, it could cost the company Rs 5 to 6 crore, with the replacement taking several months,” Tiwari added. “In such cases, consumers could be left without power for three to four months.”
The new high-performance cameras, capable of providing 360-degree coverage, will transmit live feeds to substation managers via mobile devices, allowing for continuous oversight. Additionally, MP Transco is integrating an optical fiber network that will enable its central control center at Shakti Bhawan in Jabalpur to monitor all 416 substations in real-time. “With just one click, we can now monitor any substation from Jabalpur,” Tiwari said, emphasizing the added oversight the system will provide.
By fortifying its infrastructure against theft and damage, MP Transco aims to ensure an uninterrupted power supply to consumers and reduce the financial and operational burdens associated with such incidents.