NEW DELHI: A major step was taken in the direction of providing stable power and reducing power theft on Tuesday with the launch of the Mass Network Modernisation Programme (MNMP) in the Capital's areas serviced by the private power distributor BSES Yamuna Power Limited. The programme, which seeks to streamline the distribution network through installation of 100 per cent insulated low-tension wires in the target areas, was inaugurated by the Member of Parliament from East Delhi, Sandeep Dikshit.

Speaking on the occasion at the Shastri Park grid, Mr. Dikshit observed: "The mass modernisation of its distribution network undertaken by BYPL using insulated cables will prove to be a milestone in improving the power supply in the area. BYPL should implement the system across East Delhi. This will not just go a long way in reducing the number of local faults but also substantially reduce the incidence of power theft and accidents in the area.''

While as of now the programme has been launched for the Karawal Nagar, Nand Nagri and Yamuna Vihar divisions, later it would be expanded to other parts of the city.

BYPL Chief Executive Officer Arun Kanchan said while the company had initiated several steps to streamline its distribution system, implementation of MNMP at an investment of over Rs.50 crores would not only greatly help in reducing power theft from the existing levels of 66 per cent but also get thousands of additional customers in the billing net.

Implementation of 63 MNMP schemes in the three divisions will benefit lakhs of existing customers by replacing the existing un-insulated low-tension mains and conductors with insulated cables and locked distribution boxes. Additionally, it will also streamline the overhead distribution network and give it an aesthetic look. "Camps will also be organised in the area, enabling people to apply for new connections,'' said a BSES official.

To begin with, MNMP is being implemented in densely populated and congested areas with very narrow by-lanes, where unscrupulous elements have been stealing power by mainly hooking on to the un-insulated BSES low-tension wires. Under the scheme, electricity is supplied through 100 per cent insulated cables and a locked distribution box will make it next to impossible for the power thieves to hook and steal power.

The BSES spokesperson said MNMP is part of a Rs. 100-crore system improvement exercise. "A total of 382 MNMP schemes have been planned, which besides benefiting lakhs of existing customers and getting thousands of new customers in the billing net will also lead to improvement in power supply."

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