Guwahati: A massive inferno ripped through the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) substation in Panigram, under Udharbond in Cachar district, late on Tuesday night, leaving a trail of destruction and plunging several neighbouring localities into darkness. The conflagration, which erupted with alarming speed, has raised serious concerns about sustained power supply disruptions across the affected region.
Official sources within APDCL confirmed the devastating impact of the blaze, detailing how a substantial section of the vital power distribution hub was consumed by the flames. Among the most critical losses was the complete incineration of a 5 MVA Power Transformer (PTR). Furthermore, the fire inflicted total damage upon the Distribution Transformer (DTR), the 11 kV bus, and numerous essential power and control cables, rendering the substation utterly inoperative.
Though fire brigade personnel mounted a swift response, successfully containing the inferno before it could propagate further, the extensive damage has crippled the facility. The precise origin of the fire remains shrouded in mystery, with an investigation expected to be launched imminently to unearth the cause.
Power department officials have warned that the path to full restoration will be a protracted one, anticipating several days of intensive repair work given the scale of the destruction. Consequently, residents of Udharbond, Dudhpatil, Palurbond, Majagram, Shalganga, and their contiguous areas have been advised to prepare for prolonged periods without electricity.
Authorities have moved to reassure the public, confirming that emergency repair operations are already in full swing. They have also issued an earnest appeal for the community’s cooperation and patience as they strive to expedite the restoration process and alleviate the widespread power crisis.