Revised right-of-way compensation guidelines for inter-state transmission lines
The Ministry of Power has revised how landowners are compensated when inter-state transmission lines of 66 kV and above cross their land. Where market rates exceed circle rates, a district-level committee will fix land value, and extra compensation paid by transmission companies can be passed through as a change in law.
Why it matters. Right-of-way disputes are a leading cause of transmission delays, so a fixed valuation process with cost pass-through should speed land access but raise ISTS costs that flow into transmission charges.
What changes
- Compensation is normally based on the circle rate, guideline value or stamp-duty rate; where the market rate is higher, a district Market Rate Committee sets the land value.
- The committee is chaired by the District Magistrate or Collector (or a nominee not below Additional District Magistrate) and averages three valuations from IBBI-empanelled valuers, due within 21 days.
- Tower base area is compensated at 200% of market value, covering the area inside the four legs plus one metre on each side.
- Corridor compensation is 30% of market value in rural areas, 45% in municipalities and notified urban planning areas, and 60% in municipal corporations and metropolitan areas.
- Additional compensation actually paid above the base amount assumed in a competitively bid ISTS scheme is eligible for pass-through by CERC under change in law.
- Appeals against a committee rate must be filed within 30 days and are admitted only if work at the site is allowed to continue meanwhile.
Who is affected
Transmission developers and TSPs · CTUIL and ISTS bidders · State governments and district administrations · Landowners along ISTS corridors
Sources
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