NGC upgrades Lahore transmission line, energizes new autotransformer in Hyderabad

LAHORE, March 16: The National Grid Company of Pakistan (NGC) has completed key upgrades to the country’s power transmission infrastructure, including the upgradation of a major transmission line in Lahore and the energization of a new autotransformer in Hyderabad aimed at improving grid reliability.

According to NGC, the up-gradation of the 220kV Sheikhupura–Bund Road Lahore double-circuit transmission line (CCT I & II) has been completed from Tower No. 01 to Tower No. 55 during an approved shutdown period from January 3 to March 14, 2026. The line has now been energized on load on an interim basis, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing project.

The project involves installing 84 new towers along a 28-kilometre transmission line using a twin bundle rail conductor configuration. So far, 83 tower foundations and 70 tower structures have been completed.

NGC officials said that 18 kilometres of conductor stringing has been carried out, while 53 old towers have been dismantled and 18 kilometres of old conductors removed as part of the modernization work.

During a recent site visit, Deputy Managing Director (AD&M) Engr. Rasheed A. Bhutto reviewed the progress and appreciated the pace of work on the project.

New autotransformer energized in Hyderabad

Separately, NGC has energized a 220/132 kV, 250 MVA autotransformer at the 220kV Grid Station Tando Mohammad Khan Road in Hyderabad, further strengthening the national transmission network.

The autotransformer has been installed by NGC’s Project Delivery South Formation under the World Bank-funded National Transmission Modernization Project (NTMP-I).

Officials said the new installation will increase transformation capacity, improve system reliability and help maintain a more stable voltage profile for consumers served by the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO).

Focus on strengthening transmission network

Managing Director NGC Engr. Altaf Hussain Malik said the completion of these upgrades would contribute to a more resilient transmission network and support reliable electricity supply.

He appreciated the efforts of the project teams and noted that timely completion of such projects is essential for strengthening the country’s power infrastructure and ensuring stable power delivery to consumers.