Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Feb 20: A large-scale protest rally was held in the city on Thursday, February 20 morning against the Udupi-Kasaragod 400 KV power transmission line and the Paladka-Kadandale 400/220 KV project. The rally was jointly organized by the Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh, Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh, and several other organisations.
The rally, which began from CSI grounds in Balmatta, proceeded towards the Clock Tower, drawing participation from farmers, environmental activists, and concerned citizens. The protesters raised slogans against the destruction of agricultural land and forest cover, alleging that the project was being implemented without proper consultation with landowners and in violation of legal norms.
Mangaluru diocese PRO Fr J B Saldanha flagged off the rally by handing over a green flag to the protestors.
Environmental and agricultural concerns
The Udupi-Kasaragod power transmission project, executed by UKTL-Sterlite Power, has faced fierce opposition for the past five years due to its impact on agricultural and forest lands. Protesters claim that the project will destroy over 3,450 acres, including 2,300 acres of farmland, leading to the loss of nearly 2.65 lakh areca trees, 1 lakh coconut trees, 4.5 lakh pepper vines, and more than 2.5 lakh other large trees. The proposed route is also expected to affect 328 homes, 26 temples, 16 mosques, 14 schools, and 13 churches.
Health and safety concerns
In addition to environmental damage, the high-voltage power lines have raised health concerns due to potential radiation exposure. Protesters fear that the electromagnetic waves emitted by the transmission lines could increase the risk of cancer, infertility, and other health complications among residents and livestock.
Demands of the protesters
The protesters have put forth several key demands:
- Reroute the project to prevent the destruction of agricultural land and forests.
- Repeal the outdated Telegraph Act of 1885 and implement the more relevant 2003 Electricity Act.
- Ensure strict compliance with government guidelines for power transmission projects.
- Remove the sole authority of UKTL-Sterlite Power over the project and involve the government as a key stakeholder.
The rally was supported by multiple organizations, including the Kasaragod 400 KV and Paladka-Kadandale 400/220 KV Power Transmission Line Opposition Protest Committees Federation, ICM Mangalore diocese, Raitha Sangha-Hasiru Sene, Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (R) Karnataka Pradesh, Parisara Sangama-Jeeva Sankula Para Vedike, and Udupi Jilla Krushikara Sangha, among others.
The protestors have urged the government to take immediate action and address their concerns before proceeding with the project.