Conditional waivers granted for residential construction under overhead power lines

Thiruvananthapuram: Power department cleared 16 of 19 applications seeking exemption for carrying out construction activities under heavy-duty overhead power lines. The decision was taken by exercising state govt's special powers.

The exemptions were granted by exercising rules 62 and 63 of the Central Electricity Authority (Measures Relating to Safety and Electrical Supply) Regulations 2023 based on the recommendations of a three-member committee set up by state govt.

Though clause 136 of the regulation prohibits constructions of all categories under high-tension power lines, govt can give conditional approvals to applications if they are for residential purposes, provided the proposed constructions maintain the mandatory minimum distance from the lines. Most exemptions were given to applicants from Thiruvananthapuram district. While 10 applicants from Thiruvananthapuram got exemptions, three applicants each from Ernakulam and Alappuzha were granted exemptions.

However, the conditional approval holds the landowners responsible for any kind of loss to life or property due to the power lines in future. They won't be eligible for any compensation from KSEB or govt in the event of any unforeseen loss or damage.