Punjab Government Significantly Increases Compensation for Landowners Affected by 66KV Electric Supply Lines
In a significant move aimed at benefiting landowners impacted by the installation of 66KV electric supply lines, the Punjab Government has announced a substantial increase in compensation rates. This decision, made under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, addresses long-standing concerns among affected landowners about the financial losses they face due to the presence of power infrastructure on their property.
On February 6, Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO revealed the landmark decision, stating that the compensation for landowners affected by the construction of 66KV electric supply lines would more than double. This revised compensation policy ensures that landowners receive fair and equitable compensation for the diminution in the value of their land caused by the installation of electric supply infrastructure.
Significant Increase in Compensation for Tower Base Area
Under the newly announced policy, the compensation for land impacted by the tower base area has been drastically increased. The tower base area is defined as the space enclosed by the four legs of the electric transmission tower, with an additional one-meter extension on each side. Previously, compensation for this area was set at 85% of the land’s value. However, the Punjab Government has more than doubled this figure, increasing it to 200% of the land’s value.
This change is a substantial improvement, ensuring that landowners are compensated more fairly for the reduction in their property’s market value due to the installation of these transmission towers. The new compensation rate will provide landowners with a greater financial cushion to offset the impact on their land, which may be rendered less valuable or suitable for future use because of the power infrastructure.
Increased Compensation for Right-of-Way (ROW) Corridor
In addition to the increased compensation for the tower base area, the Punjab Government has also enhanced the compensation rate for land affected within the Right-of-Way (ROW) corridor. The ROW corridor refers to the area designated for the electric supply lines, as defined under the Central Electricity Authority’s (Technical Standards for Construction of Electrical Plants and Electric Lines) Regulations of 2022.
Previously, landowners whose property was within the ROW corridor were compensated at a rate of 15% of the land’s value. The new compensation rate has been increased to 30% of the land’s value. This improvement will directly benefit landowners whose properties are situated along the transmission line corridors, where overhead lines or underground cables may impact the land’s usability and value.
The ROW compensation acknowledges that the presence of power lines, whether overhead or underground, may reduce the overall utility of the land. No construction activities of any kind will be allowed within the ROW corridor, meaning affected landowners are restricted from developing their land as they see fit.
Determining Land Value for Compensation
To ensure fairness, the compensation for affected landowners will be based on the land’s market rate or circle rate, as determined by the District Magistrate, District Collector, or Deputy Commissioner. This guarantees that the compensation reflects the current value of the land in the open market and is not undervalued.
The revised compensation structure addresses the potential negative effects of electric supply line infrastructure on land value, offering landowners a more equitable solution for any loss they may incur due to the installation of these essential power transmission lines.
A Progressive Move for Landowners
Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO emphasized that this policy revision is part of the Punjab Government’s continued commitment to ensuring the welfare of landowners who are affected by infrastructure projects, such as electric transmission lines. By increasing the compensation rates, the government aims to provide financial relief to landowners, helping them recover from the loss of land value caused by the installation of the 66KV supply lines.
“This is a landmark decision that reflects the Punjab Government’s dedication to ensuring fairness and justice for affected landowners,” said Minister ETO. “We are committed to providing adequate compensation to those who experience a reduction in their land value due to the installation of electric supply lines.”
The Importance of Fair Compensation for Landowners
This policy change comes at a time when infrastructure projects are increasing across the state, and the need for adequate compensation for affected landowners has never been more critical. The installation of power lines and other infrastructure can significantly impact the value of nearby properties, which often leads to disputes over fair compensation.
The new compensation policy by the Punjab Government ensures that landowners are not left at a disadvantage when their land is affected by essential public infrastructure projects. By providing fair compensation, the state helps to ease the financial burden on those affected and fosters goodwill among the public.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Fairness for Landowners
The Punjab Government’s decision to increase compensation for landowners impacted by the installation of 66KV electric supply lines is a progressive step that ensures fairness for those affected by the infrastructure development. With the increased compensation for both the tower base area and the ROW corridor, landowners are now in a better position to recover their financial losses and continue with their lives.
This move sets a precedent for future infrastructure projects, highlighting the need for fair compensation to protect the rights and interests of landowners while supporting the state’s progress in power distribution and infrastructure development.