The Society for Forest, Environment, and Climate Change based in Mangaluru is calling on the government to consider an underground route for a new 115-km power transmission line. This line is planned to stretch from Padubidri in Udupi district to Kasaragod in Kerala. The society believes that using modern technology for this underground installation is vital to preserving trees and protecting the environment.
Benedict C. Fernandes, the society’s secretary, warned that if the line is built above ground, approximately 178,000 trees on private properties and around 3,000 on government land would need to be cut down. He stressed that this would have serious environmental impacts on the regions of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
In January, the Forest Department granted permission for tree removal. However, the Society challenged this decision at the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which halted the project on August 1. Mr. Fernandes indicated that the project developers currently have only preliminary approval from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. He emphasized the importance of securing final approval, known as stage II clearance, before any work can begin.
Interestingly, despite lacking this crucial clearance, the project developers have already begun erecting 35 transmission towers. “Stage I clearance is not sufficient to start construction,” Mr. Fernandes explained. He further mentioned that if stage II approval is granted, the developers will be required to compensate farmers whose lands will be impacted. This compensation must reflect the market value, determined by a committee led by the Deputy Commissioner, yet no such committee has been established yet.
In addition to environmental concerns, there are worries about health risks from the radiation emitted by the proposed power line. Communities living nearby fear potential negative health effects, which makes public discussions around the project even more critical.
According to a recent report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), underground power lines can significantly reduce environmental and health impacts. The technology is evolving, and countries like Germany and Sweden have successfully implemented similar projects, showing lower tree loss and less disruption to local ecosystems.
As urban areas grow and energy needs rise, responsible planning becomes essential. The discussions around this transmission line mirror concerns worldwide about balancing development and environmental preservation. Communities globally are growing more vocal about protecting their natural surroundings, reflecting a trend that prioritizes sustainable energy solutions.
In the end, the outcome of this project could set a precedent for future power developments, making it crucial for relevant stakeholders to consider the long-term impacts on both the environment and local communities.
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karnataka,dakshina kannada,udupi,400 kVA Padubidri-Kasaragod power transmission line,kasaragod kerala,The Society for Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Mangaluru, urged the government to lay the 115-km-long 400 kVA power transmission line from Padubidri in Udupi district to Kasaragod in Kerala underground using latest technology in order to save trees and protect environment.
