Haryana Introduces Enhanced Compensation Framework for High-Voltage Transmission Projects
The Haryana Government has unveiled a comprehensive new policy that significantly revises compensation procedures for landowners affected by the installation of high-voltage intra-state transmission lines. Announced by the Energy Department, this notification replaces the previous policy from July 2024 and establishes clear guidelines for compensation related to crop damage, land valuation, and Right of Way payments for transmission lines of 66kV and above.
Immediate Implementation and Broad Applicability
The new framework takes effect immediately and applies prospectively to all transmission projects, including ongoing works that have not yet been completed. It covers all intra-state transmission lines of 66kV and above, regardless of whether they are constructed by HVPNL, PGCIL, other central or state agencies, or private entities. Issued under the powers conferred by Sections 67 and 68 of the Electricity Act, 2003, the policy also references provisions of the Indian Electricity Act, 1910, and the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, to determine rights and payments for land affected by transmission line construction.
Detailed Compensation for Crop Damage
The policy introduces a structured approach to compensating farmers whose crops are affected during various stages of transmission line installation. Compensation will be payable at three critical stages: during the casting of tower foundations, the erection of transmission towers, and the stringing of conductors.
To receive payment, farmers must obtain a certificate from the Patwari or any higher-ranking revenue department officer in the area. This certificate must include essential details such as:
- The farmer's name
- The affected land area in acres
- The type of crop damaged
- Yield calculations
- The rate of the crop
The final compensation is calculated based on the area of crops damaged, crop yield per acre, and the applicable rate per acre. Payments will be transferred directly to the farmer's bank account, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Enhanced Compensation for Land Value Reduction
Beyond crop damage, the policy addresses compensation for the diminution of land value caused by the installation of transmission towers. These provisions apply only to Intra-State Transmission System lines of 66kV or above, excluding sub-transmission and distribution lines.
Compensation for land value reduction will generally be determined using Circle rates, Collector rates, or Stamp Act guideline values. However, if the prevailing market rate exceeds these official rates, a Market Rate Committee chaired by the District Magistrate or Deputy Commissioner will determine the applicable rate based on recommendations from independent land valuers.
The policy specifies that the tower base area, defined as the area enclosed by the four legs of the tower plus a one-meter extension on each side, will be compensated at 200% of the determined land value. For the Right of Way corridor, compensation varies according to land type:
- 30% of land value in rural areas
- 60% in municipal corporations and metropolitan areas
- 45% in municipalities, nagarpanchayats, and other urban planning areas
Urban areas are defined under the Haryana Development and Regulation of Urban Areas Act, 1975, and the Town & Country Planning Department's opinion is final in any dispute.
Right-of-Way Restrictions and Technological Alternatives
The notification clarifies that no construction is permitted within the RoW of transmission lines. In areas with RoW constraints, the policy encourages the use of alternative technologies to minimise land usage and optimise space. These include:
- Narrow-based lattice towers
- Steel pole structures
- Compact towers with insulated cross-arms
- Underground XLPE cables
- High Voltage Direct Current systems
Streamlined Landowner Identification and Payment Process
During project execution, a check survey will document landowners whose property falls within the transmission line corridor, in accordance with the Central Electricity Authority's regulations. Compensation is a one-time, upfront payment, transferred directly to the entitled person's bank account based on certification by the Patwari or a senior Revenue Department officer.
Shyamal Misra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department, emphasised the importance of this policy in ensuring fair and transparent compensation for landowners while supporting the development of the state's power infrastructure. "This framework balances the interests of landowners with the state's need to expand and modernise its transmission network," Misra stated.
The new policy represents a significant step towards harmonising infrastructure development with landowner rights in Haryana, providing a clear and equitable compensation mechanism for those affected by high-voltage transmission projects.
