Mysuru: Electricity is an integral part of human lives today, without which one can’t lead a normal life as ‘electric power’ drives today’s technology-driven generation. Though most are aware of the fact that electricity can be generated using water, coal, wind and in recent times using solar energy, but a few are aware of the fact that, the first hydro electric power station was established in Karnataka’s Shivanasamudra. It was in fact Asia’s first.
The River Kaveri which takes birth in the hills of Kodagu, flows miles down and looks like an ocean near Krishnaraj Sagar dam. The other tributary Kabini joins later and after passing through forest ridden with rocks it becomes larger and takes a huge plunge near Shivanasamudra where a major first segmented waterfall takes its birth. Segmented waterfalls occur where the water flow is broken into two or more channels before dropping over a cliff, resulting in multiple side by side waterfalls. The first one which falls from a greater height is called Gaganachukki in Mandya district and the other with rapidity is called Bharachukki in Chamarajnagar district. The river water drops from a height of 98 meters at the perennial waterfall.
One can experience a ‘flash’ of lightening or sudden ‘flow of electricity’ through one’s body when the falls are in full flow. It was one such electrifying experience which drove the deputy chief engineer of erstwhile Mysore State, Maj. A.J. De Lotebiniere during one of his visits to the site which gave rise to idea of harnessing electricity. Thus, the first hydro electric power station of the state and Asia came into existence.
If one goes through the pages of history, it becomes clear that the ‘thought to action’ process in developing the hydro electric project began around 120 years ago when Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar was the king of Mysore. De Lotebiniere placed his proposal to develop a hydro electric power station in the area. Enthused by the proposal, the king offered all support and summoned Diwan Sir.K.Sheshadri Iyer and instructed him to give all support to the proposed project. Elephants, horses and bullock carts were used to carry the heavy equipment imported from United Kingdom and the U.S. to the hilly terrain. Wooden poles were brought specially from Australia for the purpose. With combined efforts a 700 KW hydro electric power station was established in the area.
Transmission lines to KGF
The first hydro electric power station became operational on June 30, 1902 and the then resident General of Mysore state, Donald Robertson launched the 700 KW hydro electric station.
Electric energy was transmitted to the Kolar gold fields from the new project. A transformer was located centrally and electricity was distributed to various mines in Kolar district. The erstwhile Mysore State held the distinction of establishing the first major hydroelectric power generating station at Shivanasamudra and rest is history.
Nothing to bluff, it’s a tourist hotspot
Today, thousands of people visit these falls during the monsoon and many feel that the panoramic view from a distance is breathtaking. The falls area is also called Shimsha by locals and in those days British termed the hydro electric station as ‘Bluff’. Annual religious fairs are held in places around the falls site which draw extra pilgrims and tourists.
One can travel via Ramanagar, Maddur and Malavalli from Bengaluru to reach the falls and from Mysuru via Bannur and Malavalli or via Chamarajnagar and Kollegal towns.
The only word of caution is not to venture into waters for swimming as it is very dangerous and most tourists are advised to view the falls and get drenched by the ever inviting water splash from a distance. It’s better to travel in private or hired vehicles and not rely on public transport.
