Gujarat is set to undergo a major urban transformation as the state government has approved an ambitious plan to make cities wire-free by shifting overhead electricity lines underground. The decision, approved by the Gujarat Cabinet, is expected to improve public safety, enhance city aesthetics, and strengthen electricity infrastructure across urban areas.
Under the initiative, all 17 Municipal Corporations and 151 Municipalities in Gujarat will gradually replace overhead power lines with underground electrical networks. The state government has already approved an allocation of ₹500 crore for the first phase of the project.
The move is being seen as a significant step toward modern urban development and smart city infrastructure, helping Gujarat create cleaner, safer, and more resilient cities.
Massive Underground Power Network Planned Across Gujarat
The project aims to eliminate the web of electricity wires commonly seen above roads, residential societies, and commercial areas.
Scope of the Project
According to the approved plan, Gujarat will underground:
- 14,600 kilometers of High-Tension (HT) power lines
- 31,400 kilometers of Low-Tension (LT) power lines
This means a total of nearly 46,000 kilometers of electrical infrastructure will eventually be shifted below ground across urban Gujarat. The large-scale modernization project is expected to be implemented in phases, ensuring minimal disruption to residents and businesses.
Why Gujarat Is Moving Power Lines Underground
Overhead electricity lines have long been vulnerable to weather-related disruptions, accidental damage, and safety risks.
Key Benefits of Underground Power Infrastructure
Improved Public Safety
One of the biggest advantages of underground cabling is enhanced safety. Exposed wires and electric poles often pose risks during storms, floods, and accidents. Underground networks significantly reduce the chances of electrocution and electrical hazards.
Fewer Power Outages During Extreme Weather
Gujarat frequently experiences heavy rainfall, strong winds, cyclones, and storms in coastal regions. Overhead power lines are often damaged during such events, leading to electricity disruptions.
By moving cables underground, authorities expect a significant reduction in power failures caused by:
- Cyclones
- Strong winds
- Heavy rainfall
- Falling trees
- Short circuits
Better Urban Appearance
The project is also expected to improve the visual appeal of cities. Currently, many roads and residential areas are covered with clusters of electrical wires hanging between poles. Underground cabling will create cleaner skylines and more organized streetscapes, contributing to the state’s vision of modern and smart urban centers.
Impact on Gujarat’s 17 Municipal Corporations and 151 Municipalities
The initiative will cover all major urban centers of Gujarat along with smaller municipalities.
Major Cities Expected to Benefit
The project will impact residents and businesses in major cities including:
- Ahmedabad
- Surat
- Vadodara
- Rajkot
- Bhavnagar
- Jamnagar
In addition, residents across 151 municipalities will also benefit from improved electricity infrastructure and safer urban environments.
Smart Cities Vision Gets a Major Push
Urban development experts believe underground power distribution is a crucial component of smart city planning.
Supporting Future Infrastructure Growth
Underground utility corridors provide several long-term advantages:
Easier Road Development
Future road widening and infrastructure projects become easier when utility lines are placed underground.
Better Disaster Management
Critical power infrastructure remains protected from external damage, improving disaster preparedness and emergency response capabilities.
Increased Property Value
Areas with organized utility infrastructure and cleaner streets often experience higher property values and improved commercial attractiveness.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The project is expected to generate multiple economic benefits for the state.
Reduced Maintenance Costs
Although underground cabling requires significant initial investment, maintenance costs over the long term are generally lower compared to overhead systems that require frequent repairs after storms and weather-related incidents.
Support for Sustainable Urban Development
The initiative aligns with Gujarat’s broader goals of sustainable urban growth and modernization. Cleaner streets, safer public spaces, and reliable electricity supply are expected to improve overall quality of life for residents. The underground network will also help create more organized utility management systems in rapidly growing urban areas.
Gujarat’s Urban Transformation Enters a New Phase
The Gujarat Cabinet’s decision to make cities wire-free marks one of the state’s most ambitious urban infrastructure initiatives in recent years. With ₹500 crore allocated for the first phase and plans to underground nearly 46,000 kilometers of power lines, the project is expected to reshape the appearance and functionality of cities across Gujarat.
Once completed, residents will witness cleaner roads, safer neighborhoods, fewer electricity disruptions, and improved urban infrastructure. The initiative is expected to play a key role in transforming Gujarat into a model for smart and sustainable urban development in India.
Also read, PM Modi to Launch ₹12,421 Crore Highway Projects in Gujarat on June 5
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