A new report by the Standing Committee of Experts has highlighted serious concerns over the failure of Extra High Voltage (EHV) transmission towers in India during 2024. The committee, formed under the Electricity Act, 2003, held a key meeting on April 25, 2025, at the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) headquarters in New Delhi to review incidents and data from various utilities. The committee observed that many utilities are not following the required reporting norms. As per regulations, all tower failures of 220 kV and above must be reported within 48 hours, and a detailed report must be submitted within a month. However, many utilities delayed reports or failed to attend the meeting. Out of 12 that reported failures, only 8 were present. APTRANSCO, MSETCL, GETCO, and NTPC did not attend.
During the year, 76 EHV transmission towers failed across 28 lines. Most of the failures—68 towers—were of the Suspension Type, which are more prone to collapse due to their inability to handle strong horizontal forces. The failure of one suspension tower often led to nearby towers collapsing in a chain reaction. Among the major incidents, POWERGRID reported multiple failures. A tension tower collapsed on the Kishenpur-New Wanpoh line due to land sliding, a known issue since 2020. Another tower on the Silchar-Imphal line was damaged by explosives in a suspected sabotage case. The Gaya-Koderma line saw seven towers collapse due to strong cyclonic winds. The Abdullapur-Bawana line experienced sabotage where 40 parts were found missing, pointing to theft. The committee recommended increasing patrolling in such areas.
Adani reported four suspension towers collapsed on the Bilaspur – Rajnandgaon and Akola – Ektuni lines due to whirlwinds and storms. In Rajasthan, RVPN reported two tower collapses on the MIA-BTPS line due to conductor theft. This line, commissioned in 1976, is no longer in use, and RVPN is considering its dismantling. The Bhadla-Jodhpur-Merta line also suffered five tower collapses due to stormy weather. Other failures were reported by MSPCL, HVPNL, MPPTCL, DTL, and DVC due to high winds, theft, and lightning.
A major concern raised was the lack of actual wind speed data from the locations and times of these failures. Many utilities blamed wind storms but did not provide concrete data. The committee advised using data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which has 700 wind sensors nationwide. Wind data from nearby observatories or airports can be used to verify if tower design standards are sufficient.
The committee also stressed that tower stability depends on design standards, material quality, and proper construction. Indian tower design standards have improved over time, but older towers may need upgrades. It was recommended that restored and spare towers meet the IS 802:2015 standard. Other suggestions included filing FIRs in case of theft or damage, improving line patrolling, regular maintenance, and replacing missing parts. The committee urged utilities to take proactive steps as climate change leads to more frequent extreme weather events.
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