Mumbai: With the possibility of El Niño conditions triggering extreme weather events, prolonged heat waves and a surge in electricity demand, Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited (Mahatransco) has launched a comprehensive statewide preparedness initiative aimed at ensuring uninterrupted power supply and maintaining grid stability.Acting on directions issued by the Union Ministry of Power, Mahatransco has rolled out a 12-point action plan across all transmission zones, mandating preventive measures, emergency readiness and continuous monitoring of critical transmission infrastructure. The initiative is designed to strengthen the resilience of Maharashtra’s power transmission network against weather-related disruptions and rising operational stress.A key focus of the action plan is preventive and condition-based maintenance of the state’s Extra High Voltage (EHV) network. Transmission lines, substations, transformers, reactors, circuit breakers, protection systems and allied equipment will undergo rigorous inspections and maintenance to minimise the risk of outages. Planned shutdowns are to be kept to the bare minimum during periods of peak electricity demand.Mahatransco has further ordered extensive thermovision scanning and hotspot detection of transmission lines, switchyards, transformers and busbars. Any abnormalities detected during inspections are to be rectified immediately to prevent equipment failures and ensure network reliability.To enhance emergency response capabilities, all zones have been directed to maintain adequate stocks of critical spares, including transformers, conductors, insulators, tower components and Emergency Restoration System (ERS) equipment. Patrolling of vulnerable transmission corridors will be intensified, particularly in areas where vegetation poses a risk of contact with transmission lines.The utility will also review the operational readiness of voltage management systems such as shunt reactors, capacitor banks and STATCOMs, while ensuring round-the-clock availability of emergency maintenance teams, vehicles, tools and safety equipment.In addition, Mahatransco will closely monitor weather forecasts and strengthen coordination with the Maharashtra State Load Despatch Centre, Regional Load Despatch Centres, generating stations and distribution utilities. The disaster management framework and cybersecurity protocols for SCADA, EMS and communication systems are also being reinforced.All Chief Engineers have been directed to personally oversee implementation of the preparedness measures and submit weekly progress reports. Any major equipment failure or grid disturbance must be reported immediately, along with details of restoration efforts undertaken.Under the leadership of Chairman and Managing Director Vikram Kumar, Director (Operations) Satish Chavan has instructed all field formations to remain on heightened alert and complete advance preparations to tackle any adverse impact arising from potential El Niño conditions.“The proactive initiative underscores Mahatransco’s commitment to maintaining a robust transmission network and ensuring reliable electricity supply across Maharashtra, even under challenging weather conditions and rising power demand,” said a senior official..