The National Transmission and Despatch Company Limited (NTDC) has successfully replaced a 108 km 220 kV transmission line in the southern region. On June 3, 2023, the newly constructed Guddu-Shikarpur transmission line was energized, marking a significant achievement. This milestone represents a major advancement in enhancing the power supply system in the southern areas of Pakistan, particularly the provinces of Balochistan and Sindh.
The completion of the Guddu-Shikarpur Transmission Line project required a total contract cost of USD 13,108,994 and PKR 1,630,460,035. This transformative initiative specifically tackles operational issues and system bottlenecks that were prevalent in the previous transmission line. By addressing these challenges, the project aims to improve the efficiency and reliability of the power transmission infrastructure in the southern region. The existing 220kV Guddu-Sibbi single circuit transmission line, constructed in 1977, suffered from aging and deterioration of the PCC poles and steel towers. Over the course of its more than 40 years of service, the transmission line experienced a de-rated capacity, causing frequent operational challenges for power transmission from Uch Power plants to respective load centres.
The replacement of the transmission line signifies a crucial step towards providing more stable and consistent electricity supply to the residents and industries in Balochistan and Sindh Provinces.