Kerala Electricity Board Grants Conditional Approval for Land Use Projects
The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) Ltd has given conditional approval to utilize two land parcels leased from the forest department near the Idukki hydel reservoir. These parcels will be used for setting up a public crematorium and a miniature model of the Moolamattom power house, marking a significant development in the region's infrastructure and tourism initiatives.
Approval for Public Crematorium in Arakkulam
During a full board meeting, KSEB decided to approve the Arakkulam grama panchayat's request for permission to use 20 cents of land near KSEB's workshop at Moolamattom. This land will be allocated for the construction of a much-needed public crematorium. The decision followed extensive discussions between Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine, Power Minister K Krishnankutty, and relevant officials, highlighting the collaborative effort to address community needs.
Miniature Power House Model for Tourism
In a parallel move, 1.5 acres of forest land under KSEB's custody will be handed over to the Kerala Hydel Tourism Centre. This land, situated adjacent to Tazvaram Colony, is designated for constructing a miniature replica of the Moolamattom power house. During a site visit on October 3, 2025, Minister Augustine requested KSEB to provide necessary technical assistance for this proposed project, aiming to boost educational and tourism opportunities in the area.
Strict Conditions and Safety Norms
The permissive sanction for these projects comes with several stringent conditions to ensure compliance and safety:
- The sanction is purely permissive and does not confer any ownership or permanent rights over the land to Arakkulam grama panchayat or KHTC.
- All required statutory approvals, including prior permission from the forest department and other competent authorities, must be obtained by the implementing agency at their own cost before any work begins.
- All construction and operations must adhere to applicable electrical safety, environmental, and disaster management norms.
- The projects must not affect the safety and functioning of KSEB installations and power generation activities at Moolamattom.
KSEB's Authority and Revocation Rights
KSEB retains absolute authority to revoke the permissive sanction, wholly or partly, at any time without assigning reasons. This can be done if required for operational, safety, legal, or public interest reasons. Upon revocation or discontinuation of the projects, the land must be restored to its original condition at the cost of the panchayat or KHTC, as directed by KSEB or the forest department.
This approval underscores KSEB's commitment to balancing community development with environmental and operational safeguards, ensuring that new projects align with broader safety and regulatory frameworks.
