The Ghana Energy Ministry has issued a firm directive to individuals and entities currently occupying the designated corridors extending along the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) Right of Way, demanding immediate departure. This action follows a significant incident involving a fuel tanker explosion beneath the Tema–Achimota 161kV transmission line near Ashaiman Middle East, resulting in substantial damage to the power line’s structural integrity and a section extending over 300 metres into the tower itself. Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, announced the order in a Facebook post, stating that ‘I have called on all persons and institutions encroaching on GRIDCo’s Right of Way to move out immediately.’
The directive stems from an inspection following the incident, which revealed unauthorized activity surrounding high-voltage transmission infrastructure. The damaged line, caused by the explosion, compromised the tower’s structural integrity, necessitating immediate action. Dr. Jinapor emphasized that this incident underscores the critical dangers posed by unauthorized encroachment and the potential for disruption to vital electricity supply lines.
He explained that the incident highlights the need for stringent enforcement of regulations designed to prevent loss of life, property damage, and the overall reliability of Ghana’s electricity grid. Specifically, the Minister cited the L.I. 542, amended L.I. 1737, which prohibits activities within protected corridors extending 15 metres on either side of 161kV transmission lines and 20 metres for 330kV lines. Dr. Jinapor cautioned the public against undertaking any potentially hazardous operations, including welding and other risky activities, underneath electricity pylons. He stated that strict adherence to these regulations is paramount to safeguard lives, protect property, and ensure the continued functionality of Ghana’s electricity supply.
The Ministry also announced a planned maintenance exercise on the damaged transmission line, scheduled for this weekend, commencing during the coming week. The exercise will involve temporary power interruptions across the Greater Accra Region to allow for the restoration work to proceed safely. Dr. Jinapor stated that the maintenance will take approximately two hours and will require temporary power disruptions to enable the restoration process to be conducted safely. He explained that these interruptions are necessary to facilitate the restoration works and ensure the safety and reliability of the transmission system.
Furthermore, Dr. Jinapor addressed the public’s concerns regarding potential power outages, stating that the interruptions were a necessary measure to facilitate the restoration operations. He reiterated the importance of respecting protected transmission corridors and avoiding any activities that could endanger lives or damage critical infrastructure. He concluded by stressing the need to protect Ghana’s transmission infrastructure and ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply for the nation.
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Source: Adom Online
