Odisha power companies want CAMPA funds to maintain power lines
Odisha power companies want CAMPA funds to maintain power lines
In a first of its kind, a request has been made to utilise the CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation and Management and Planning Authority) funds to repair the low hanging live wires. There have been elephant deaths due to electrocution, however the four power distribution companies in Orissa (WESCO, SOUTHCO, NESCO and CESU ) are not willing to do the maintenance of the power lines citing lack of funds.
If this request is going to be accepted then this is going to open a pandora's box with requests flooding in for various activities. The main purpose of the CAMPA initiative is going to be defeated. It might be pertinent to mention that organisations which have diverted forest land are required to contribute to the CAMPA funds. These funds are meant for conservation projects and not for helping companies do their regular job.
It is infact a sad state that private power distribution companies can plead for lack of resources and do nothing to maintain the power lines which continue to kill elephants.
The Odisha Government has decided to request MoEF for diverting Rs 20 crores from the state CAMPA fund.
If a human being is electrocuted due to a low hanging powerline, then the company is going to be hauled by for safety issues and has to pay compensation. In that case, the company has no way but to pay and maintain the power lines. In case of wildlife, the companies feel that this is not mandatory as death of elephants despite its deep rooted connection with our culture and religion doesn't arouse emotions to a sufficient degree.
Sabyasachi
