K.J. George and officials with BESCOM’s ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certificate at Energy Bhavan. Photograph supplied.
Bengaluru: Karnataka is sending 500 skilled powermen, 15 Palfinger trucks fitted with cranes and earth augers, and 25 tractor-based drilling machines to Andhra Pradesh to help restore power infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Arnab, the state government said on Monday.
The Andhra Pradesh government had asked for manpower and equipment, the release said. Chief Minister D K Shivakumar spoke to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu over the phone and assured him of full support.
“Electricity is an essential service, and restoring it immediately is an urgent requirement for the well-being of the affected people. Karnataka stands firmly with the people of Andhra Pradesh during this tough time,” Shivakumar said.
Energy Minister K J George, who is supervising the effort, said Karnataka would work closely with Andhra Pradesh officials to ensure quick restoration through field-level coordination and advanced equipment.
How the teams are organised
- The teams left for Andhra Pradesh on Monday afternoon on an emergency basis, and were due to reach by midnight, the release said.
- The linemen are divided into teams of 10, each led by a Junior Engineer or Assistant Engineer.
- An Executive Engineer from each O&M circle will oversee the teams.
- Each ESCOM has named a single point of contact to coordinate with Andhra Pradesh officials.
- Drivers and operators are travelling with the trucks and drilling machines.
Contingency funds are being provided to cover travel, accommodation and other emergency expenses for the personnel, the government said.
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