The ongoing development of the Udupi–Kasargode 400 kV (Quad) D/c Transmission Line has brought critical focus to electrical safety guidelines and construction within its designated corridor. Udupi-Kasargode Transmission Limited (UKTL), the entity executing the project under the powers of the Electricity Act, 2003, has issued a public clarification to address concerns and ensure adherence to established norms.
The transmission line project, crucial for regional power stability, operates with the same authority as the telegraph authority under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, granting UKTL the mandate to lay overhead lines. This legal backing underscores the strategic importance and the inherent safety requirements of such infrastructure. Key safety clearances from electrical conductors, as stipulated by the Indian Electricity Act, are central to the guidelines. A minimum horizontal clearance of 5.63 meters from any building and a vertical clearance of 7.33 meters above any building are mandatory. These specifications are non-negotiable and aim to prevent hazardous proximity to high-voltage lines.
For existing residential structures that fall within the transmission corridor or directly beneath the conductors, a government assessment is slated to determine appropriate compensation based on established guidelines. This acknowledges potential impacts on existing habitations and outlines a formal process for redressal. A significant advisory has been issued for new construction projects within the transmission corridor. Individuals planning to build new houses are urged to consult with the UKTL office prior to commencing construction. This measure is designed to proactively ensure that any new structures comply with the stringent electrical clearances, thereby mitigating future risks and regulatory complications.
In a move to alleviate concerns regarding land utility, UKTL has clarified that various agricultural activities remain permissible within the transmission corridor. Farmers can continue cultivating crops such as paddy, papaya, mango, black pepper (on cement poles), pineapple, and dragon fruit. This allowance is contingent on these activities not interfering with overhead line structures or clearance zones, and their adherence to relevant safety norms. This suggests a balance between infrastructure development and continued agricultural livelihood.
On the project’s progress front, UKTL reports significant milestones. The Kerala section has seen the successful completion of all 101 tower foundations, while 77 out of 177 tower foundations have been completed in the Karnataka section. These figures indicate steady advancement of the vital transmission link.
The public clarification by UKTL comes as a timely intervention, emphasizing the paramount importance of safety, regulatory compliance, and public awareness in the context of large-scale infrastructure projects that intersect with populated and agricultural areas.
