West Bengal Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) will spend around Rs 114 crore to introduce a safer power distribution system across Jalpaiguri district and two adjoining areas — Gorubathan block of Kalimpong and Mekhliganj subdivision of Cooch Behar.

“We will introduce insulated cables that are safe for providing power in households and commercial areas. They would reduce accidents from electrocution. The new system, technically known as high-voltage distribution system (HVDS) also helps maintain steady voltage during power supply. In all, the project would cover around 5.5 lakh consumers,” said Bishnu Dutta, regional manager of WBSEDCL in Jalpaiguri.

The project, he said, would be implemented with financial assistance from World Bank.

On Monday, the project was approved and formally announced during videoconferencing held with officials of the state power department.

Once new cables replace the existing distribution wires, power supply would not snap during storms when uprooted trees fall, he added.

“We will use existing electric poles to lay cables. Also, 1,000-odd transformers would be installed under this project and two power substations will come up in Berubari (of Jalpaiguri Sadar block) and Matialli block,” Dutta said.

Abhishek Kumar Tiwary, district magistrate of Jalpaiguri present at the video conference, said consumers under the project should cooperate with the power company. “Once the project is complete, it will improve electricity distribution across the district and in parts of two neighbouring districts. People should cooperate with WBSEDCL as it needs to take up an elaborate task (laying the cables),” he said.