Power disruption hits Sichey and Ranka after heavy rains trigger landslide

A major power disruption has affected parts of Sichey and Ranka after a landslide damaged a key power sub-station in Sichey on Monday evening. According to the Power Department, the landslide took place following heavy and continuous rainfall throughout the day.

The incident happened around 6:30 PM on May 12 when a portion of the hillside above the 66/11 kV power sub-station at Sichey gave way. The force of the slide severely damaged the 11 kV control room and feeder panels inside the power station. The control room is an important part of the electricity supply system, and its damage has led to major disruptions in the area.

As per officials, the landslide brought with it large amounts of mud and water which entered the control room, damaging several important pieces of electrical equipment. The battery system, which supports power operations during outages, was also badly affected. Some parts of the building, including its supporting columns, have also been damaged due to the pressure of the debris.

The Power Department issued a statement informing all consumers that their officers; right from the Secretary to Junior Engineers and linesmen are on the ground working hard to restore power. However, due to the seriousness of the damage, the department has said that electricity supply to Lower Sichey and Ranka will remain disrupted for some time.