The PGCB took over about 1144 circuit km 230 kv lines, 5255 circuit km 132 kv lines, 6 number of 230/132 kv substation and 63 nos, of 132/33 kv substations from PDB and DESA in different phases. Transmission lines of the company during 2004-05 fiscal year stood at 1466 circuit km 230 kv lines, 5255 circuit km 132 kv, 167 circuit addition, the company took eight infrastructure development projects for further development of its operation. After successful completion of the above project the capacity of PGCB transmission network will enhance significantly.
PGCB has been installing OPGW (Optical Ground Wire) on high voltage transmission line since 1996. To protect the transmission lines from thundering, this technology of placing optical fiber within the ground wire is being widely used throughout the world at present. The instant communication between LDC and different grid substations, power stations are being maintained through PGCB’s own telecommunication PLC (Power Line Carrier) system for the purpose of reliable power transmission. Besides voice communication, the above PLC telecommunication system have got the additional facilities of tele-protection for protecting the transmission lines from external faults & tele-metering for instant data transfer and to take necessary actions. Due to the inadequate speed of existing PLC communication equipments, efforts are being taken to improve the telecommunication system of PGCB by installing & using high speed Optical fiber with multiplexers.
In the Poverty Reduction Strategic Paper it is said that A good infrastructure is critical for higher economic growth, poverty reduction and social development. Among the different physical infrastructure power sector is most crucial one. So, for sustained economic growth uninterrupted and adequate power should be transmitted in the National Grid. For proper implementation of Poverty Reduction Strategy 10 number of transmission projects of PGCB are under implementation with Bangladesh Govt. and foreign loan financing . There are a total of 85 men are employed in these projects. So, by reducing unemployment it helps reduce poverty directly. Secondly, due to infrastructure development the present economic growth is achieved. This helps indirectly reducing poverty too.