Bhatkal: Hubballi Electricity Supply Company (HESCOM) Chairman Syed Azeempeer Qadri has assured that persistent electricity supply issues in Bhatkal taluk will be resolved at the earliest, acknowledging the hardships faced by residents.
Speaking to reporters ahead of attending an Eid harmony meet organised by Tanzeem, Qadri was apprised of frequent disruptions in power supply across Bhatkal and surrounding areas, which have compounded difficulties for the public amid intense heat conditions. He also took note of delays in the construction of transmission towers despite the completion of the 110 kV station. In response, he said the matter would be taken up with Energy Minister K.J. George and District In-charge Minister Mankal Vaidya to expedite necessary action.
Highlighting infrastructure challenges in coastal regions, Qadri noted that saline weather conditions, heavy monsoon rains, and strong winds often result in damage to electric poles and wires. He emphasised the need to deploy high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials to reduce such incidents, minimise recurring losses to HESCOM, and enhance public safety.
He further stated that efforts are underway to resolve legal hurdles and complete the 110 kV power station project in Bhatkal. Plans are also being discussed to establish a 110 kV connectivity link with neighbouring Byndoor taluk in coordination with MESCOM authorities.
Providing details of ongoing welfare initiatives, Qadri said a total of 140,343 beneficiaries in Kumta, Honnavar, and Bhatkal sub-divisions have been provided electricity connections under the Gruha Jyothi scheme, achieving 98.88 per cent progress in the region.
Focusing on the agricultural sector, he said supplying electricity to farmers during daytime remains a priority, with seven hours of power currently being provided. The government is also considering expanding solar energy solutions for farmers, including the distribution of solar-powered pump sets supported by subsidies of 50 per cent from the state government and 20 per cent from the Centre, leaving only a limited share of the cost to be borne by farmers.
He added that nearly one lakh unauthorised irrigation pump sets across seven districts are being regularised. A new scheme is also being introduced to facilitate immediate power connections for farmers, including the provision of a free transformer under the scheme.
Senior HESCOM officials, including Honnavar Sub-Division Executive Engineer Praveen Mugali, Bhatkal Assistant Executive Engineer Manjunath, and engineer Ramesh Mesta, were also present.