In 1905, Bengaluru’s streets went electric; the power came from Shivanasamudra, a hydro plant built to power Kolar’s gold mines

Bengaluru's streets became illuminated with electric lights in 1905. Power for these lights originated from the Shivanasamudra hydroelectric project. This project initially supplied electricity to the Kolar Gold Fields for mining operations. The electricity network later expanded to include domestic consumers in the city. This development marked an early stage in Bengaluru's electrification.