Mangaluru: Farmers voiced strong objections to the ongoing Udupi–Kasaragod 400 kV transmission line work being executed by Udupi-Kasargode Transmission Limited (UKTL) during a grievances meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Darshan HV at Praja Soudha on Thursday.

Several farmers alleged that transmission towers were being erected on agricultural fields before compensation was fully settled, claiming that construction activity was damaging standing crops. They urged the district administration to convene an immediate meeting with the company to address their concerns.

Raitha Sangha leader Yadava Shetty questioned the recourse available to farmers when their farmlands were allegedly “forcibly damaged” during project work, stressing that many public grievances could be resolved through joint meetings involving all concerned officials and the executing agency.

Farmers also sought withdrawal of cases registered against those who protested the project, arguing that cultivation involves significant effort and investment and that work on transmission infrastructure should be scheduled after harvest. They called for coordinated discussions between the district administration, police, and project authorities to arrive at a solution.

Responding to the concerns, the Deputy Commissioner said multiple rounds of meetings had already been held at both taluk and district levels regarding the project. He clarified that enhancement of compensation does not fall under the DC’s jurisdiction and noted that compensation for standing crops is being provided as per existing provisions. He further stated that altering the transmission line alignment is not feasible at this stage since the detailed project report was prepared nearly nine years ago and about 90% of the work has already been completed.

In a separate clarification, UKTL said the project is being implemented in compliance with all applicable laws, state regulations, government notifications, and directions issued by the district administration. The company said misconceptions had arisen regarding compensation and maintained that it engages with landowners through dialogue. According to the release, compensation related to Right of Way and crop impact is determined as per legal norms and is disbursed to landowners prior to commencement of work upon execution of formal agreements. UKTL added that it remains committed to completing the project on schedule while addressing genuine concerns within the legal framework.