The devastating Cyclone Phailin has caused havoc in the state and disrupted the power supply in all affected areas. The power supply and distribution systems have taken a heavy beating. The initial estimates have put the total loss at Rs 900 crore.

Over 34,000 L.T. lines and more than 3,700 H.T. were damaged. 13 sub-stations in Berhampur and 3 sub-stations in Chhatrapur have been destroyed by the cyclonic storm. The restoration work is going on a war footing. Energy Minister Arun Sahoo has urged the people to help and cooperate with the authorities during this crisis.

According to the Energy Minister, all essential equipments required for the power restoration work such as cables and wires are available in stock and there is no reason for panic. The Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has been asked to provide 1,000 electric poles at the earliest. Some electric poles have been collected from other sources too.

Around 3,000 skilled laborers are required for the restoration work, while 1,200 have been deployed so far. The Centre has been notified about this issue. The Chief Minister has already raised the matter with the Prime Minister. He has requested to dispatch efficient skilled workers from PGCIL, NTPC, NHPC etc.

Mr. Arun Sahoo has expressed hope and confidence that power services will be restored in the affected areas very soon. The Collectorate in Berhampur and Chhatrapur, MKCG Medical College & Hospital, Water Supply department etc. will get power as soon as possible. The ODRAF team is working to clear the roads blocked by fallen trees in Aska and Bhanjnagar. GRIDCO CMD Hemant Sharma is visiting Berhampur to monitor the restoration work.