PATNA, Feb. 16 -- The Patna Electricity Supply Undertaking (PESU) has initiated a Rs.328.51-crore project to strengthen and modernise the electricity distribution system in the state capital under the Centre's Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), aimed at improving the operational and financial performance of distribution companies (DISCOMs). The project, scheduled for completion within two years, includes construction of four 33/11 kV power substations (PSS) - each with 2x10 MVA capacity - at Danapur Block Office, Nohsa, Transport Nagar and Bahadurpur Housing Colony, PESU general manager Dilip Kumar Singh said. "The new substations will reduce the length of 11 kV feeders, leading to fewer breakdowns and faster restoration of supply. Overloaded substations and feeders will also be offloaded to cater to rising electricity demand in the city," he added. "The scheme also provides for underground cabling of 94.44 km of 33 kV lines and 155.25 km of 11 kV cables, along with low-tension cabling around the Dak Bungalow area," said Singh. According to officials, underground lines will improve resilience during heavy rains and storms, reduce tripping and breakdowns, lower electrocution risks and enhance supply reliability. The South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (SBPDCL) will introduce multiple power sources for substations and deploy ring main units (RMUs) - compact medium-voltage switchgear systems used to control, protect and isolate electricity supply. In case of faults such as cable cuts or short circuits, RMUs will isolate only the affected section, preventing widespread outages and ensuring continuity of supply to most consumers. The project further includes upgradation of 223 distribution transformers from 200 kVA to 315 kVA, installation of 61 new three-phase 990 kVA compact transformers, aerial bunching of 124 km of low-tension lines, said Singh. Officials said the measures will help reduce aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses, improve billing and collection efficiency, strengthen the financial sustainability of the discom and ensure reliable, quality power supply for Patna residents....