TRICHY: Roads leading to Rockfort and Samayapuram temples are set to be free of overhead electricity cables, with Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) completing work to convert 11.6km of overhead power lines into underground cables at a cost of Rs 7.6 crore. The project is expected to ensure uninterrupted power supply to residential and commercial establishments near the two temples, particularly during festivals, while reducing disruptions caused by adverse weather.TNPDCL has converted 9.3km of overhead power lines around Rockfort Thayumanaswamy temple and another 2.3km around Samayapuram Mariamman temple into underground cables. Proposed in 2023-24, the project aims to prevent power supply disruptions during temple car festivals, when electricity lines had to be temporarily disconnected to allow the processions to pass safely.During major festivals such as the Chithirai and Panguni temple car processions, which attract lakhs of devotees, Tangedco workers traditionally had to suspend power supply and temporarily disconnect low-lying cables along the procession routes. Underground cables will eliminate the need for such measures while reducing the risk of electrocution. They are also less vulnerable to technical faults caused by heavy rain and gusty winds.Around 1,293 service connections in the two temple areas are expected to benefit from uninterrupted power supply during festivals. The cables have been laid about three feet below ground level.“Conversion work at Rockfort and Samayapuram temples commenced around June and February respectively, but we faced challenges during the assembly elections and the Poochorithal festival. Both underground cable conversion projects are almost over, and we are planning to commission the facilities before December,” a TNPDCL official said.The project is also expected to ease traffic congestion and free up public space, particularly along narrow roads and pavements, by allowing the removal of electricity poles. However, as several poles also support streetlights, officials have asked urban local bodies to relocate the lights before the poles are removed.“Public cooperation is essential for the project to succeed. Digging roads beneath which power cables pass should be avoided for safety reasons. Local bodies should inform us in advance if they need to undertake excavation for maintenance of water pipelines or sewers,” the official added.
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