Stay away from powerline right-of-way – EEDC cautions developers

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has cautioned the general public against putting up structures and carrying out business activities within powerline right-of-way (ROW).

It said the advice become necessary as it noticed with dismay the indiscriminate manner where structures were erected and social and economic activities carried out under High and Low Tension lines, without recourse to dangers associated with such act.

The Head of Communications, EEDC, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, expressed these concern while chatting with newsmen in Enugu during the week.

The power company called on landlords, as well as building contractors “to always ensure that the mandatory clearance levels are observed and maintained.

“These clearance levels are: 11 meters for 11kv and 33kv lines (5.5 meters on both sides); 30 meters for 132kv line (15 meters on both sides); and 50 meters for 330kv line (25 meters on both sides).”

Ezeh said that the EEDC had applied various communication medium in sensitising its customers on the need to be safety conscious.

“We frown at the indiscriminate manner structures are erected within electricity right-of-way and warn our customers to desist from this hazardous behaviour.

“Also, we have situations where ornamental and economic trees are planted under or very close to our High and Low Tension lines, thereby interfering with the electricity network, causing intermittent tripping. These trees also pose risk of electrocution,” he said.

Ezeh added that “there are situations where electricity lines sag or snap, and if the specified clearance level is not observed, lives of people living within the area will be exposed to possible electrocution.

“EEDC is, however, working with relevant government agencies to ensure that the various powerline right-of-way are enforced.

“Adherence to powerline right-of-way as well as these clearance levels will go a long way in safe guarding not only lives of the citizens, but also their properties.”