Karnataka deploys 500 linemen, equipment to restore power supply in cyclone-hit Andhra Pradesh
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The State government is providing contingency funds to meet travel, accommodation and other emergency expenses of the deployed personnel. | Photo Credit: File Photo
Karnataka has deployed 500 trained power utility workers and specialised equipment to Andhra Pradesh to help restore electricity infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Arnab.
The deployment follows a request from the Andhra Pradesh government for manpower and equipment to carry out restoration work in cyclone-affected areas. The Karnataka government has mobilised the teams under the supervision of Energy Minister K.J. George as part of inter-State cooperation.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar spoke to his Andhra Pradesh counterpart N. Chandrababu Naidu over the phone and assured him of Karnataka’s support.
“Electricity is an essential service, and restoring it immediately is necessary for the well-being of people affected by the disaster. Karnataka stands firmly with the people of Andhra Pradesh during this difficult time,” the Chief Minister said.
Mr. George said Karnataka’s teams would work closely with Andhra Pradesh officials to restore power supply at the earliest through field-level coordination and the deployment of specialised equipment.
The State has sent 500 trained linemen, 15 Palfinger trucks equipped with cranes and earth augers, and 25 tractor-mounted drilling machines. The teams were mobilised on an emergency basis and left for Andhra Pradesh on Monday afternoon, reaching the State by midnight.
For effective deployment and coordination, each electricity supply company (ESCOM) has appointed a single-point contact officer to liaise with the concerned Andhra Pradesh officials.
The linemen have been divided into teams of 10, each led by a junior or assistant engineer. An executive engineer from every operations and maintenance circle has been assigned to supervise and coordinate the teams.
Drivers and operators are accompanying the Palfinger trucks and tractor-mounted drilling machines to ensure their effective use at restoration sites. The State government is also providing contingency funds to meet travel, accommodation and other emergency expenses of the deployed personnel.
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