A 30-year-old cooling tower in Surat's Utran was demolished today in a swift and controlled explosion that lasted just five seconds. The 85-meter high structure, which belonged to Gujarat State Electricity Corporation's Gas Base Power Station, was taken down using 250 kg of timenite and the cutting-edge troll blasting imposition technique.
The decision to demolish the 70-meter wide chimney came from the central government after the cooling tower reached its 30-year lifespan. In accordance with guidelines from the government, old plants are to be dismantled after a certain number of years to ensure safety and efficiency.
Preparations for the demolition included closing surrounding roads in the area where the tower was installed. The controlled detonation, which typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes to complete, was executed with impressive speed. The tower crumbled to the ground within just 10 to 15 seconds, and the entire structure was destroyed in a mere five seconds.
Following the blast, a whirlwind of air pressure formed for 5–10 minutes, while dust plumes were confined to an area of only 50 meters around the demolished tower. The demolition of the cooling tower is part of a broader effort to dismantle the 135 MW plant at the Utran Power Station, which has been in operation for the last two years. The station also houses a 375 MW plant, which remains operational.
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