Karnataka will send 500 trained power utility workers and specialised equipment to Andhra Pradesh to help restore electricity lines damaged by Cyclone Arnab. Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced this on Monday, November 2, according to The News Minute.
Key points
- Karnataka is deploying 500 linemen, 15 Palfinger trucks and 25 tractor-mounted drilling machines.
- Over 15,000 electricity poles have been uprooted in the cyclone-affected areas of Andhra Pradesh.
- The teams left on Monday afternoon and are expected to reach Andhra Pradesh by midnight.
- Karnataka will keep assessing the situation for two days, as Cyclone Murasu is approaching.
Help sought by Andhra Pradesh
The deployment follows a request from the Andhra Pradesh government for manpower and equipment for restoration work. According to the report, more than 15,000 electricity poles have been uprooted in the areas hit by the cyclone.
Shivakumar said he spoke to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and assured him of Karnataka's full support. The state's Energy Department is coordinating the assistance under the supervision of Energy Minister K J George.
Teams and equipment
Karnataka has mobilised 500 trained linemen. It is also sending 15 Palfinger trucks fitted with cranes and earth augers, along with 25 tractor-mounted drilling machines. These are meant to help with the work of putting up poles and rebuilding the network.
The linemen have been divided into teams of 10, and each team is led by a junior or assistant engineer. An executive engineer from every operations and maintenance circle has been assigned to supervise and coordinate the work on the ground.
All electricity supply companies (ESCOMs) in Karnataka have named nodal officers to stay in touch with Andhra Pradesh authorities. Drivers and operators are travelling with the specialised vehicles and machines so that they can be used effectively at the restoration sites.
Funding and what comes next
The Karnataka government will also provide contingency funds to cover travel, accommodation and other emergency expenses of the personnel sent to Andhra Pradesh.
Shivakumar said Karnataka will continue to assess the situation over the next two days, especially because Cyclone Murasu is approaching. He added that the state would extend all possible assistance to its neighbour.
For residents in the affected areas of Andhra Pradesh, the extra workers and machines are expected to support the work of restoring electricity supply, which has been disrupted by the large number of fallen poles.
