Underground power lines for Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram

“Actually, such a scheme was conceived earlier but nothing substantial as executed. Now efforts would be made to source funds as the existing funds will not be enough for such a major scheme,” said sources. Tangedco officials said, “The problem with overhead lines is that new power poles which replace the damaged poles have to be firmly planted in cement. They have to undergo curing before lines can be attached to it. No shortcuts can be taken as any haphazard work will result in problems for both the corporation and residents.” 

It is this process which has led the corporation to now consider the conversion. In addition to this, it will also cost less in the long run and will take less time for repairs.  Asked about complaints of discrimination cropping up in the above affected districts due to Chennai always being given priority, officials said “It is not a question of Chennai being accorded priority. The fact is that all major lines starting from 400 KV and tapering to 230 KV, 110 KV and 33 KV enter Chennai from various sources, including NTPC from outside. So, unless these affected lines are repaired, it would not help neighbouring districts as their power is also sourced from this end.” Though Chennai city is back to normal, the suburbs remain in the dark. Areas such as Velachery and other far flung areas continue to suffer. 

Velachery has both overhead and underground cables. “The latter was affected by digging undertaken by the highways department while overhead lines were affected by uprooted trees and branches falling on them,” said a resident who did not want to be named. But it’s now four days since the cyclone struck, power is yet to be restored in several areas in Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram districts. Velusamy of Chengalpattu said, “Nearly 25 per cent of the town have power, but in other areas, work is still under progress.” 

Similarly, sources in Kanchipuram said “Restoration work is still on and affected areas are yet to get power supply.” Government officials in Tiruvallur district said, “The town has power, but work is still continuing in outer areas. We expect normalcy by December 16 evening.”