Bhadradri Kothagudem, Sept.13 : Residents of Pagideru and Gollakotturu villages in the Manuguru mandal of Bhadradri Kothagudem district are experiencing a unique natural phenomenon where groundwater surges to the surface as piping hot water without the aid of any electrical or mechanical pumps. The natural geothermal spring provides a continuous supply of hot water, effectively replacing domestic water heaters for local villagers who use it daily for bathing and household chores.
The phenomenon extends across the region, where steam visibly rises from the ground during winter mornings and following heavy rainfall. The presence of these hot springs was initially found when Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) conducted exploratory deep borewell drilling to identify underground coal reserves. To the surprise of engineers and geologists, steaming hot water erupted from the borewells 24 hours a day with enough heat to cause skin burns upon direct contact.
Recognizing the potential for clean energy, SCCL initiated geothermal power generation studies in the region. A pilot project has been functioning under SCCL’s supervision in Pagideru, and efforts are underway to scale up geothermal capacity to 120 MW. Officials reported that plans are being finalized to acquire approximately 300 acres of land in Pagideru to facilitate the expansion and establish larger geothermal power production facilities.
About the Author
