ADB Supports West Bengal’s Power Supply with $241.3 Million Loan
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a loan of $241.3 million to enhance the power distribution in West Bengal, India. This initiative aims to provide reliable and sustainable electricity to improve the quality of life for residents.
Program Details
The program will benefit 8.96 million consumers across seven districts by replacing low-tension overhead lines with aerial bundled cables and creating separate electricity feeders for agricultural and non-agricultural users. It will also develop an integrated system for managing power supply quality and performance.
Operational Efficiency and Safety
The program will boost the operational efficiency of the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited by focusing on asset and financial management, renewable energy promotion, and gender equity. ADB will also update safety policies and provide health and safety equipment.
Community and Staff Training
Efforts will be made to raise awareness about electrical safety in communities and train district technical staff on safety practices. ADB’s commitment is to foster a prosperous and sustainable Asia and the Pacific.
About ADB
Established in 1966, the Asian Development Bank is owned by 69 members, with 49 from the Asian region.
Doubts Revealed
ADB -: ADB stands for Asian Development Bank. It is an organization that provides financial help to countries in Asia to support their development and improve living conditions.
$241.3 Million Loan -: This means that the Asian Development Bank is giving a large amount of money, $241.3 million, to help improve the power supply in West Bengal, India. This money is like a big loan that needs to be used for specific projects.
Power Distribution -: Power distribution refers to the process of delivering electricity from power plants to homes and businesses. Improving power distribution means making sure electricity reaches people more efficiently and reliably.
West Bengal -: West Bengal is a state in eastern India. It is known for its rich culture, history, and the city of Kolkata, which is the capital of the state.
Overhead Lines -: Overhead lines are wires that carry electricity and are usually seen hanging above the ground on poles. Replacing them can help make the power supply more reliable and safe.
Separate Feeders -: Separate feeders are different lines or paths that carry electricity to different areas. Creating separate feeders can help manage electricity better and reduce power cuts.
Management Systems -: Management systems are tools and processes used to organize and control how electricity is distributed. Developing these systems can help improve efficiency and service quality.
Community Awareness -: Community awareness means educating people about the importance of electricity and how to use it safely and efficiently. This helps communities understand and support the improvements being made.
Staff Training -: Staff training involves teaching workers new skills and knowledge to do their jobs better. In this context, it means training people who work in the power sector to handle new technologies and systems.
