CESC launches ₹226 crore project to upgrade power infra in Kodagu
The project encompasses 536km of power line repairs, aiming to resolve power disruptions. Works are proceeding rapidly across the district.
The district's power network, primarily traversing through forests, coffee estates, and hilly terrain, faces significant challenges. During monsoons, fallen branches often cause widespread outages lasting weeks. Following concerns raised by MLAs AS Ponnanna and Manthar Gowda, CESC developed a comprehensive plan, which energy minister KJ George approved. Funding has been allocated, and in some places, work is ongoing.
The district comprises five subdivisions and 23 branch offices, featuring 7,952 transformers across 92 locations on 11 KV lines, 4,577km HT lines, and 7,331km LT lines, serving 2,29,219 consumers. Virajpet constituency received ₹120 crore, while Madikeri constituency received ₹106 crore, with completion expected by Jan or Feb next year.The project addresses long-neglected power infrastructure. Areas like Shanthalli and Bhagamandala rely on single lines spanning 100km, whilst regions including Ammatthi, Virajpet, Thithimathi, Hathur, and Bhagamandala experience voltage fluctuations. The solution involves installing cover conductors and necessary equipment, including transformers.The ₹226 crore allocation across five divisions includes Madikeri subdivision (₹49 crore), Kushalnagar and Somwarpet subdivisions (₹40.3 crore each), Gonikoppa subdivision (₹55.5 crore), and Virajpet subdivision (₹41.4 crore). CESC executive engineer M Ramachandra explained, "The work has been taken up and is being carried out briskly. Contracts have been given to three agencies. The department is constantly monitoring and taking precautions to ensure that there are no problems."Virajpet MLA AS Ponnanna, said the energy minister, who is from Kodagu, responded to their request and allocated ₹226 crore, releasing the amount immediately. Priority is being given to quality work, and precautions are being taken to ensure that no problems arise.Madikeri constituency MLA Manthar Gowda said, "The project is complementary to developing and strengthening the power supply in Kodagu district. The govt has released the funds in recognition of the long-standing demand."
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