ECG loses GH¢120,000 to bushfires in two months

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in the Volta region has lost about GH¢120,000 between November 2018 and January this year due to the destruction of high-tension poles by bushfire.

Mr Jones Makumator, Regional Engineer, said in all, 150 high tension poles were burnt during the period interrupting power supply, which resulted in revenue losses.

At a joint Ghana National Fire Service and National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) press soiree in Ho, the Regional Engineer blamed charcoal burners, hunters, palm wine tappers and some farmers for the situation.

He said the practice was negatively affecting customer satisfaction, loss of businesses and subsequently loss of revenue.

Mr Makumator called on the media to intensify the campaign against bush burning and its adverse effect on the economy and advised the public to stay away from ECG’s network, especially during flood to avoid electrocution and also cautioned against encroaching on utility corridor.

Madam Janet Duah, Volta Regional Fire Commander asked ECG to have fire belts around the poles and assured that Fire Service would engage communities on the protection of ECG poles, especially during harmattan.

She said the region recorded 200 fire outbreaks last year against 240 recorded in 2017 and attributed the reduction to intensified fire campaign and called for support from the media, particularly on domestic fires caused by illegal electrical connections, improper use and handling of gas stoves and cylinders.

Mr Divine Bosson, Volta Regional Director of NADMO underscored the need for all to be part of finding solutions to causes of bushfires and plant more trees, create vegetation cover, fire belts, reduce excessive charcoal burning and regulate activities of hunters and farmers.

He advised people living in flood prone areas to collect sand bags and use to divert water and desilt storm drains ahead of the rainy season.

Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, Volta Regional Minister commended the collaboration between NADMO and Fire Service and stated the commitment of the Regional Security Council to help the two institutions to reduce fire and other disasters in the region.

Source: GNA