The Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited (Mahatransco) has successfully commissioned the Babhaleshwar–Kudus 400 kV transmission line, enhancing power infrastructure in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This new line is set to improve power supply stability, reliability, and efficiency in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Ahilyanagar districts. It is expected to reduce transmission losses by around 5 MW and enhance voltage levels in the region.
The double-circuit transmission line will increase the power transfer capacity by up to 3000 MW, aiding in managing the escalating electricity demand in Mumbai. Initially approved in 2010 with a target completion date of 2013, the project encountered delays due to technical and administrative issues. However, with collaborative efforts from various government bodies and streamlined governance, the project was finalized in March 2026.
The project involved setting up 715 transmission towers along a total line length of about 228 km. The Nashik division completed 485 towers and 304 circuit km of stringing work, while the Vashi division finished 230 towers and 152 circuit km. Challenges during execution included securing permissions to pass near the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Pune district, land compensation disputes, forest clearances, right-of-way (RoW) limitations, and logistical hurdles in material transportation.
The commissioning of this transmission line will ease the burden on the existing Padghe–Babhaleshwar lines, enhancing overall grid reliability. It will also offer an additional power source to the Kudus substation, addressing the rising electricity demands in Mumbai. Mahatransco acknowledged the project’s success to the cooperation and assistance from local public representatives, revenue authorities, police, and forest departments.
