Tripura has made arrangements to ensure the availability of more than 400 megawatts (MW) of electricity to meet peak-hour demand during Durga Puja, with Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath assuring uninterrupted power supply throughout the festive period.
Speaking on October 15, Nath said the state government had strengthened its preparations based on experiences from previous years to ensure that power shortages do not disrupt celebrations.
While Tripura’s electricity demand did not exceed 360 MW during Durga Puja last year, the state has kept more than 400 MW available this year to meet any unexpected rise in consumption.
“We have made all necessary arrangements. Even if demand increases further, we are prepared to meet it,” the minister said.
According to Nath, peak-hour demand is expected to remain between 400 MW and 410 MW. The actual requirement will become clearer from Shashthi, when large crowds begin visiting Durga Puja pandals across the state.
Explaining recent fluctuations in power consumption, the minister said demand stood at 346 MW at 5 pm on Wednesday before declining to 336 MW by 7 pm.
Nath also disclosed that Tripura supplied 72 MW of electricity to Bangladesh on Wednesday, demonstrating the state’s ability to manage domestic requirements while exporting power.
The Power Department has introduced special arrangements for the festive season, with preparations strengthened beyond those maintained during normal periods. Department employees, including senior officials and general managers, will remain on duty around the clock to respond to emergencies.
Additional arrangements have also been made to draw electricity from alternative sources if required. A dedicated control room will operate during the festival, with enhanced facilities compared with last year.
Expressing confidence in the preparations, Nath said Tripura had not faced any major power-supply disruptions during Durga Puja over the past three years. He expressed hope that the state would maintain an uninterrupted electricity supply throughout this year’s celebrations.