CHANDIGARH: Chandigarh witnessed severe weather conditions on 23 January 2026, with sustained wind speeds of up to 74 km/h, and continuous rainfall measuring approximately 13.0 mm. The adverse weather conditions imposed significant mechanical stress on the city’s power distribution network, leading to multiple disruptions across several locations.
High wind velocity caused continuous conductor sway, resulting in line-to-line faults, snapping of conductors, and damage to electric poles at select locations. Widespread uprooting of trees and the fall of large branches on overhead power lines leading to breakage of poles and lines emerged as the primary cause of breakdowns. As a result, repeated tripping and faults were reported on 11 kV, 33 kV, and 66 kV overhead feeders. During the day, 182 breakdowns and 34 transient faults were recorded, largely due to tree-related obstructions and extreme weather conditions. 37 nos. poles were broken.
CPDL initiated response on war footing following the large-scale damage cause to overhead wires conductors and other equipment across the city. Power was restored in majority areas with several teams braving the inclement weather to restore power supply. A few isolated pockets had to bear outage for a longer duration but teams were working continuously to store supply.
Prolonged cloud cover of nearly 94 percent and extremely low visibility further hampered patrolling, fault locations, and safe crane operations. In addition, waterlogged and slippery terrain delayed access to several fault locations, impacting restoration timelines.
Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds led to the tripping of both incoming power circuits from Mohali to Sector-39, resulting in power disruption in parts of Chandigarh, including Sector-39, Sector-12, Water Works, and PGIMER. Immediately following the disruption, Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) activated its emergency response mechanism. Load changeover operations were initiated promptly, and multiple field teams were deployed for extensive patrolling to restore supply.
A major technical challenge was faced at the 33 kV Sector-37 Grid Sub-Station, 33kV Sector-34 and 33 kV Sector-18. Multiple tree obstructions along the feeder route led to repeated faults and a prolonged outage affecting the entire grid sub-station. Despite extremely adverse site conditions, CPDL teams undertook extensive patrolling, sectional isolation, tree clearance, and corrective repairs. The feeder was subsequently energised, and load restoration was initiated in a phased and controlled manner to ensure system stability and safety.