Karnataka Targets July 15 Deadline for Kadandale 400 kV Substation to End Coastal Power Woes
Mangaluru, May 6: In a major push to strengthen power infrastructure in Coastal Karnataka, the Karnataka government has directed Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) to complete the strategically important Kadandale 400 kV power substation project by July 15, 2026.
The project, located at Kadandale village in Moodbidri taluk of Dakshina Kannada district, is expected to provide a long-term solution to recurring low-voltage and power fluctuation issues affecting Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, especially during the monsoon season.
The direction was issued by Karnataka Energy Minister K.J. George, following which KPTCL Managing Director Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar visited the project site to review the progress of works.
The project had remained stalled for nearly three years due to litigation related to land acquisition and transmission line alignment. According to officials, the pending hurdles were resolved through coordinated efforts led by Energy Minister K.J. George and Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department Gaurav Gupta.
Speaking during the inspection, Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar said Mangaluru, being one of Karnataka’s major industrial and commercial hubs, requires a stable and uninterrupted power supply.
“As directed by the Minister, we are working to complete the project before the peak monsoon season and begin transmission operations at the earliest,” he said.
Major Infrastructure Boost for Coastal Region
Officials said the Kadandale 400 kV substation would significantly improve grid reliability across the coastal belt by strengthening transmission capacity and reducing the risk of prolonged outages.
The project is expected to help manage voltage instability and low-voltage complaints that frequently occur during heavy rains and adverse weather conditions in the region.
KPTCL officials explained that the new substation would also improve emergency load management. In case of technical faults at any existing station, power loads can be diverted quickly through the Kadandale substation, allowing faster restoration of electricity supply.
Temporary Power Management Measures Planned
To accelerate the completion of transmission works, KPTCL has planned to obtain line clearance on the existing 400 kV UPCL–Hebbanahalli transmission corridor between May 6 and May 24, 2026.
During this period, officials said alternative transmission arrangements would be made to maintain supply based on demand conditions. However, temporary short-duration load shedding may occur under technically unavoidable situations.
KPTCL appealed to consumers and industries in the coastal region to cooperate during the temporary operational phase, stating that the project is critical for the region’s long-term energy security.
Energy Minister K.J. George said uninterrupted power supply for public welfare and industrial growth remains one of the government’s top priorities.
“Due to certain legal hurdles, the 400 kV transmission line work was delayed. The department took special initiative to resolve these issues. The Kadandale substation will ensure high-quality and reliable power supply for Mangaluru and Udupi regions,” the Minister said.
Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta stated that the department continuously monitored the land-related disputes and ensured timely resolution through coordinated intervention.
“KPTCL has been instructed to complete the project within the stipulated timeline and dedicate it to public service at the earliest,” he said.
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