KPTCL's advanced drone inspections have identified over 1.5 lakh transmission faults, significantly improving Karnataka's power reliability
Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) has deployed advanced drones equipped with thermal imaging, LiDAR, and high-resolution cameras to inspect high-voltage transmission lines across the state. The technology has helped detect more than 1.5 lakh technical faults, reducing power outages caused by transmission failures by 85 per cent. The initiative marks a major step in Karnataka's digital power infrastructure, while the Energy Department has also announced dedicated funding for electrical safety awareness programmes.
Bengaluru: Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) has achieved a major breakthrough in strengthening the state's electricity transmission network by deploying state-of-the-art drone technology to inspect high-voltage (HV) and extra high-voltage (EHV) power transmission lines. According to the corporation, the technology-driven initiative has reduced transmission-related power outages by an impressive 85 percent after enabling early detection and rectification of technical faults.
The drone-based inspection programme has transformed KPTCL's maintenance strategy from reactive repairs to predictive monitoring, allowing engineers to identify defects before they develop into major power failures. The initiative is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring uninterrupted, reliable and high-quality electricity supply across Karnataka.
KPTCL Drone Technology Detects Over 1.5 Lakh Power Transmission Faults
As part of the statewide project, KPTCL has inspected nearly 11,000 electricity transmission towers using advanced drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging systems and LiDAR sensors.
The inspections have so far identified more than 1.5 lakh technical faults, all of which were detected before causing major disruptions and were rectified through preventive maintenance.
The corporation also surveyed over 3,370 kilometres of transmission infrastructure, including approximately 2,500 kilometres of 220 kV transmission lines and 843 kilometres of 400 kV transmission lines, enabling comprehensive monitoring of critical electricity corridors.
These inspections have significantly improved the reliability of Karnataka's transmission network by allowing engineers to locate hidden defects in difficult terrains, including forests, hilly regions and densely populated urban areas.
Power Outages Reduced by 85 Percent Across Karnataka
The early detection of technical defects has resulted in a dramatic decline in transmission-related power interruptions.
According to KPTCL, the number of power outages caused by technical faults has dropped from 519 incidents to just 73, representing an 85 percent reduction.
The corporation attributes this achievement to preventive maintenance enabled through drone surveillance rather than conventional manual inspections.
"Our focus has now shifted from repairing faults after they occur to identifying and preventing hazards before they happen," said V. Ram Prasat Manohar, Managing Director of KPTCL.
He explained that thermal imaging cameras mounted on drones instantly detect abnormal heat generated by loose electrical connections, while LiDAR sensors and high-resolution imaging provide precise structural assessments of transmission towers and insulators.
The collected inspection data is being integrated into KPTCL's digital monitoring ecosystem.
Digital Twin Platform to Enable Real-Time Grid Monitoring
KPTCL is now moving towards real-time digital monitoring of Karnataka's electricity transmission network through its upcoming Digital Twin Platform.
The platform will integrate drone-generated inspection data into a centralised control system capable of continuously monitoring the state's power grid.
Officials believe the digital transformation will improve operational efficiency, minimise unexpected breakdowns and accelerate maintenance planning.
The adoption of artificial intelligence-supported monitoring is expected to strengthen Karnataka's long-term electricity infrastructure while reducing operational costs.
Energy Minister Highlights KPTCL Digital Transformation
Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George described the initiative as a major milestone in Karnataka's electricity sector.
According to the minister, inspecting the state's nearly 45,000-kilometre transmission network using conventional methods had always been time-consuming and operationally challenging.
"With drones equipped with thermal imaging and LiDAR technology, we can complete comprehensive 360-degree inspections within a few hours. These systems detect even the smallest defects that cannot be identified through visual inspection. The 85 percent reduction in power fluctuations is a significant milestone in KPTCL's digital transformation journey," the minister said.
He added that technology-driven infrastructure management will continue to improve electricity reliability while reducing maintenance delays across the state.
Energy Department Announces Electrical Safety Awareness Fund
Alongside technological improvements, Karnataka's Energy Department has launched a statewide campaign to strengthen public awareness regarding electrical safety.
Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department Gaurav Gupta announced that every electricity supply company (ESCOM) division in Karnataka will receive ₹1 lakh to conduct electrical safety awareness programmes.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of National Electricity Safety Week, organised by the Electricity Regulatory Commission.
"Electricity is the most widely used source of energy, and its consumption continues to increase rapidly. Public awareness about electrical safety must grow at the same pace. Ensuring safety is a shared responsibility that requires collective participation," Gupta said.
The awareness campaign aims to reduce electrical accidents by educating consumers, field workers and local communities on safe electricity practices.
KPTCL's Drone Initiative Sets New Benchmark for Power Infrastructure
The deployment of drone-based inspections represents one of Karnataka's most significant technological advancements in electricity transmission management. By combining thermal imaging, LiDAR mapping and predictive maintenance, KPTCL has substantially reduced technical faults while improving the overall reliability of the state's power supply.
Officials believe the initiative will continue to enhance operational efficiency, minimise unexpected outages and support Karnataka's transition towards a smarter, digitally monitored electricity transmission network.
