Tower Above, Crops Below: The Reality of Farming with Transmission Lines in South Gujarat
Valsad (Gujarat) [India], May 18: For decades, a common belief among rural communities has been that transmission towers disrupt farming and reduce land productivity. However, a compelling on-ground story from Vankal village in South Gujarat is challenging this perception—proving that agriculture and infrastructure can successfully coexist.
Developed by Khavda IVC Power Transmission Ltd, the transmission line project is not only strengthening power connectivity but also safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods through a balanced and transparent approach.
Local farmers initially had concerns about losing usable farmland. But today, the reality on the ground tells a very different story. Even after the installation of high transmission towers, agricultural activities continue uninterrupted. Thanks to the considerable height of these structures, farmers can easily operate tractors beneath the towers and cultivate crops both around and directly under them.
One such farmer from Vankal village, Jitendra Padhiyar, shares that after the tower installation on his land, he received due compensation for land usage as well as crop-related impact. Importantly, his farming activities have not been restricted in any way. “I can still drive my tractor under the tower and continue farming as before. Crops grow well even in the tower area, so my income has not stopped—it continues smoothly,” he explains.
