Massive Fire Engulfs PSPCL Transformer Yard in Doraha

A significant fire erupted at PSPCL's transformer storage yard in Doraha, causing extensive damage. Officials speculate a discarded bidi may have ignited the blaze, which quickly escalated due to strong winds. Quick action saved a vital grid station, preventing a larger disaster.

A large fire erupted on Tuesday at the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) repair yard in Doraha, sending thick smoke billowing across the area. The blaze posed a significant threat to a nearby 220 KV grid station.

Initial investigations suggest the fire may have been sparked by a lit bidi carelessly thrown near dry grass outside the facility, escalating rapidly due to strong winds. Of the approximately 7,000 damaged transformers stored onsite, over 300 were destroyed.

Fire crews responded quickly to extinguish the flames, preventing potential damage to major infrastructure. J S Hans, Chief Engineer of PSPCL's Central Zone, highlighted the importance of preserving the grid station, emphasizing the severe impact a more extensive disaster could have had on regional power supply.