WCA November 2019

India Insight India

Insight

Going underground to provide protection

Existing transmission lines will be replaced with an insulated cable or underground cables on a priority basis. “Burying transmission lines effectively removes the problem of wildlife electrocution,” said CK Mishra, environment ministry secretary and NBWL member. To deflect the birds from coming into contact with wires the board has directed power companies to install line marker devices/bird reflectors. “As an immediate measure, the rectification of sagging transmission lines and joint inspection of every cable passing through the protected areas should be undertaken at least twice a year. “There is also a need to set up reinforced electric poles fitted with spikes to prevent elephants rubbing against them,” the board said. National Board for Wildlife – India

THE Standing Committee of India’s National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has directed all electricity supply companies and State Electricity Boards (SEBs) to use underground lines through protected areas. The move is an attempt to stop the increasing number of elephants and birds being electrocuted through contact with transmission lines. The decision was taken following recommendations from a task force formed to suggest measures to mitigate the impact of power transmission infrastructures on elephants and other wildlife. The task force report calls for underground cable for transmission lines of 33kV and below passing through national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, reserves, and eco-sensitive zones around protected areas and wildlife corridors. Where the areas are aquatic or marine in nature, aerial bunched cables or covered conductors will be used.

Bigstockphoto.com “Taj Mahal sunset silhouette in Agra, India” Photographer: David Evison

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