The Telangana government is set to shift all overhead power lines underground in Hyderabad, a move aimed at improving safety and enhancing the city's global image.

Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu, who also oversees the Power portfolio, emphasised the urgency of the project following recent tragedies in Pathergatti and Ramanthapur. The detailed project report (DPR) is nearing completion, with the pilot phase focusing on the city’s core area. This includes 1,198 km of 11 kV lines and nearly 4,800 km of low-tension networks. Citywide, the underground cabling will span around 27,000 km.

A phased rollout will utilise horizontal drilling to minimise traffic disruptions. The project is expected to reduce power losses, and maintenance costs, while also supporting sustainable urban development. Drawing from Bengaluru’s successful model —where 1,400 km of cables were laid underground for Rs 1,800 crore, Hyderabad’s first phase will cost between Rs 2,800 crore and Rs 3,200 crore. The entire project is projected to cost over Rs 13,500 crore in four to five years.