Raichur Thermal Power Plants: Powerhouse of Electricity or Source of Suffering?

The Poison of Thermal Power: The True Story of Raichur

Raichur, Karnataka, is home to two major thermal power stations generating thousands of megawatts of electricity for the state’s urban centers. Yet, despite this, local residents face prolonged power cuts, dangerous pollution, and unkept promises from politicians. This report sheds light on the environmental and social impact of Raichur’s power plants, the health risks for nearby communities, and the political apathy fueling their struggle.

Massive Power Production, Minimal Local Benefits

Raichur houses two giant thermal power plants:

• Raichur Thermal Power Station (RTPS):

  • 8 units, each producing 210 MW

  • Total capacity: 1,680 MW

• Yermarus Thermal Power Station (YTPS):

  • 2 units, each producing 800 MW

  • Total capacity: 1,600 MW

In January 2025, YTPS generated a record 718,619 million units of electricity, powering major cities like Bangalore and Mysore. However, ironically, Raichur residents still face daily power outages lasting 4 to 6 hours.

Toxic Pollution Choking Raichur’s Air

The coal-fired plants emit hazardous pollutants that severely impact local health:

• Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Causes lung irritation, worsens asthma and bronchitis.

• Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): Linked to heart and lung diseases, including COPD.

• Particulate Matter (PM2.5 & PM10): Tiny particles penetrate the bloodstream, increasing risks of cancer and heart attacks.

• Fly Ash: Coal combustion waste that contaminates air and water, causing skin diseases and cancer.

• Mercury: A highly toxic chemical damaging the brain and kidneys, especially dangerous for children and pregnant women.

Nearby communities report rising cases of asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer, and skin diseases. Local health centers see over 100 respiratory illness cases every month.

Broken Promises and Political Neglect

In 2023, the ruling party promised 200 free electricity units per household. But in Raichur, many residents never received this benefit, and bills show no discounts. Officials blame “system errors,” but the community sees this as a betrayal.

Local leaders, including MLA Dr. Shivraj Patil and MP Kumar Nayak, have made grand promises but failed to push for pollution control funds or dedicated power lines to reduce outages. Energy Minister J. George assured technical issues would be resolved by early 2025, yet power cuts and plant fires continue to plague the area. A recent fire at RTPS shut down a unit, worsening electricity shortages and affecting schools, hospitals, and businesses.

The Way Forward: Solutions Raichur Deserves

• Modern Pollution Control: Adoption of electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) to reduce fly ash and particulate emissions by up to 99%, as done in Andhra Pradesh’s NTTP station.

• Dedicated Power Lines: Separate infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted power supply to Raichur residents.

• Transparent Subsidies: Ensure 200 free units reach every household without glitches or excuses.

• Political Accountability: Leaders must prioritize health and power issues over electoral gains and engage directly with affected communities.

Final Thoughts

Raichur’s residents deserve clean air, reliable electricity, and honest governance. The power plants that light up distant cities shouldn’t darken their homes and poison their environment. Change will come only when people unite, raise their voices, and hold their representatives accountable.

Share this story, demand transparency, and stand with Raichur for a healthier, brighter future.