TNEB power line upgrade for Nellaiappar Temple Therottam in Tirunelveli: Palayamkottai.com

As part of the preparations for the upcoming Anith Therottam Festival at the historic Nellaiappar Temple in Tirunelveli, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) has undertaken critical electric infrastructure upgrades across the four Ratha Veedhis (Chariot Streets). The annual Therottam (chariot procession) is scheduled to take place on 8th July 2025, drawing large crowds and requiring reliable and safe electricity management.

To ensure smooth execution and safety during the procession, Chandra, the Chief Engineer of the TNEB Tirunelveli Region, personally inspected the upgraded underground electrical cable works replacing the earlier overhead power lines along the four major streets—East, South, West, and North Ratha Veedhis.

The inspection focused on key tasks to be executed before and on the day of the Therottam. These include:

• Temporary shutdown of electricity supply in specific zones during the chariot movement for public safety.

• Immediate restoration of power once the chariot passes.

• Reorganization of power lines along the chariot’s route to prevent obstructions and hazards.

• Ensuring alternate power supply routes for unaffected areas.

• Deployment of essential safety equipment, additional workforce, and real-time monitoring to support the swift completion of work during the event.

The field inspection was carried out with the support of a dedicated team of TNEB engineers and technical experts, who reviewed each aspect of the transition from overhead to underground cabling. This major upgrade ensures that the chariot movement remains uninterrupted and that power can be resumed without delays post-procession.

The initiative reflects the TNEB’s proactive approach in facilitating traditional festivals while maintaining modern infrastructure standards. With the successful removal of overhead cables and installation of underground lines, the festival-goers and local residents can expect a safe and seamless experience.

Among the officials present during the inspection were:

• Akhilandeshwari, Superintending Engineer, Tirunelveli Distribution Circle

• Parimalam, Executive Engineer (Electrical), Tirunelveli Region

• Venkateshmani, Executive Engineer (General), Tirunelveli Distribution Circle

• Murugan, Executive Engineer, Tirunelveli Urban Division

• Rajagopal, Assistant Executive Engineer, Tirunelveli Town Section

• Technical experts and on-ground personnel.

This effort highlights the collaborative dedication of the TNEB Tirunelveli Zone in preserving tradition while ensuring modern safety protocols and uninterrupted public utility services.