Kollam: The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has completely banned construction under extra high tension power lines. Structures beneath power lines of 66 kV and above are now strictly prohibited. Construction projects previously approved based on a ‘No Objection Certificate’ from the District Electrical Inspectorate will no longer be permitted. The decision was made at a high-level KSEB meeting, following the guidelines of the Union Ministry of Power.

The compensation for land where such power lines pass has been increased. Previously, power lines were laid through private land under a notification based on the Indian Telegraph Act, with compensation provided only for income-generating trees beneath the lines. However, due to frequent disputes and legal battles, a minimal amount of compensation was later introduced.

Now, landowners will receive 15 pc of the land value in villages and 30 pc in cities. For a 66 kV line, compensation will be granted for nine metres of land on either side of the power line, while for a 110 kV line, the compensation area extends to 22 metres. All construction within this zone is strictly prohibited.

The compensation for land occupied by electric towers carrying extra high-tension lines has also seen a steep rise. Previously, it was set at 85 pc of the land value, but it has now been increased to 200 pc. The land value will be determined by the district administration.

This decision is expected to place a heavy financial burden on KSEB. Until now, compensation was only provided for the specific area occupied by the four legs of the tower. With the new rule, an additional one metre of land will be acquired on each side, increasing the total compensation area by two and a half times.