The Assam government has approved the Central Guwahati Underground Cabling Project at a cost of Rs. 1.77 bn. The initiative will replace the existing overhead power network with underground infrastructure across key urban corridors and is funded through savings under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme Loss Reduction Project.

The project will cover approximately 18 km across five priority corridors in Central Guwahati. The identified stretches are Paltanbazar, AT Road, MG Road, GS Road up to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, and GS Road from Bhangagarh to Dispur Secretariat.

Under the plan, existing 33 kV, 11 kV and Low Tension networks will be shifted underground. The modernised system is expected to improve the reliability and continuity of electricity supply by allowing power to be rerouted when faults occur, thereby limiting the effect of outages.

The underground network is also intended to reduce the vulnerability of power infrastructure to storms and flooding. It will improve public safety and address the clutter caused by overhead power lines along major city corridors, while its design will accommodate projected annual load growth of around 8 per cent.

The government has directed Assam Power Distribution Company (APDCL) to coordinate with the Traffic Police, Guwahati Municipal Corporation, Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority and other agencies. Statutory clearances must be completed in a time-bound manner, while construction will require traffic management and public-safety measures to minimise disruption for commuters and residents. The project is expected to strengthen Guwahati’s electricity infrastructure as demand increases and urban development continues across the city.