Vijayawada: The relocation of high-tension (HT) power lines for the Vijayawada West Bypass project sparked controversy, with farmers from Jakkampudi village protesting against the construction.
Claiming that the placement of the HT wires at low heights would significantly diminish the value of their land, farmers blocked the ongoing work connected to the Lanco Power Project. This led to a tensed atmosphere in the area.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is said to be firm in its resolve to complete the Vijayawada West Bypass by April 2025, with several high-tension power lines obstructing the proposed road alignment. While adjustments were successfully made at five locations involving AP Genco lines, the situation became contentious at Jakkampudi, where 1.2 kilometre of Lanco Power’s HT lines interfered with the bypass route. Farmers argue that the private power project has been shut for years and that the relocation of its power lines is a waste of resources.
Moreover, the farmers expressed concerns over the construction of 12 low-height towers for realigning the HT wires. They feared it would devalue their land and disrupt their livelihoods. Despite months of dialogue, they intensified their protest by blocking the ongoing construction work and refused to allow the officials access to their fields unless the design was revised.
Although the revenue and NHAI officials attempted to negotiate with the farmers on-site, but the discussions failed to yield results. Highlighting delays in the bypass project caused by power line adjustments, authorities decided to press forward. Heavy police forces were deployed to ensure that the work proceeded without further interruption.
Adding to the tension, some farmers approached the high court, seeking intervention to halt the project. However, as no stay order was granted, the authorities continued with construction. Meanwhile, the protesting farmers announced plans to escalate their agitation with a demonstration at the district collector’s office on Monday.
