Kerala has sought Karnataka's government help in expediting the southern power grid of Kaiga Stage-II, 400 kV D/c line between Mysore and Kozhikode (Calicut).

The Union Minister of State for Power, Mr K C Venugopal, on Thursday, met the Karnataka Chief Minister, Mr B.S. Yeddyurappa and sought his intervention. The Minister apprised the Chief Minister about the transmission line, its importance to the southern power grid and the benefit to both states.

Mysore –Kozhikode 50 km power line is getting delayed due opposition from coffee planters in Karnataka portion, forest clearance problem in Kerala and Karnataka portion. The transmission line is being erected by Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) and is part of the southern power grid.

“The matter has been taken up with highest level with both the State Governments and further being followed up through intervention of the Union Ministry of Power,” a PGCIL official said.

Speaking to reporters after meeting the Karnataka Chief Minister, Mr Venugopal said the power transmission line is very crucial for north Kerala especially Kozhikode town.

“About 50 kms stretch in Mysore and Kodagu districts in Karnataka work has stalled by local people fearing adverse impact on people and the environment.

The Karnataka Chief Minister has reciprocated saying he will try to help clear the project hurdle by holding meetings with local people,” Mr Venugopal further added.

According to Power Grid Corporation officials, the Bandipur-Nagarahole- Kozhikode line had to be re-routed via Kodagu to avoid forest cover and the distance.

Now the proposed power transmission line is likely to pass through south Kodagu to Calicut.

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