(a) Every company authorized to construct hydroelectric dams in the State of Arkansas, when it becomes expedient or necessary to acquire a right-of-way for the purpose of constructing a railroad for use in connection with or to facilitate the construction of the dam, the companies shall have the power to enter upon, condemn, and appropriate the lands, rights-of-way, easements, and property of persons, firms, or corporations.
(b) The method or manner of making its survey, laying out its right-of-way, acquiring its right-of-way, either by contract or condemnation, shall be the same as now provided by law in case of the exercise of the right of eminent domain by telegraph, telephone, and railroad companies.
(c) It shall be subject to the same duties and liabilities and shall have the same rights as prescribed by law with reference to railroads.
(d) This section shall not be so construed as to authorize the condemnation of public streets or highways.