Coast

Kwale residents warned against igniting fires near electricity poles

Kenya Power officials at work in Kwale. (Handout)

By Mishi Gongo | Thursday, April 11, 2024

He said there is an urgent need for collaboration with residents to mitigate risks and safeguard both electricity supply and environmental conditions in the region.

Kenya Power has cautioned individuals starting bushfires close to electricity infrastructure, emphasising the danger posed to residents' safety and power supply stability in the region.

Calvin Jagongo, Kwale's Kenya Power business manager, identifies Msambweni and Matuga sub-counties as hotspots for such activities, urging vigilance to prevent hazardous incidents.

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"Before you start a fire, check your surroundings, because if it gets to the electricity poles, the reaction will be hazardous," said Jagongo.

During the National Government Development-County Implementation, Coordination, and Management Committee (NGD-CICMC) meeting chaired by Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde on Thursday, Jagongo highlighted the alarming number of burnt electricity poles due to bushfires, stressing the severe damage inflicted on property and infrastructure.

He said there is an urgent need for collaboration with residents to mitigate risks and safeguard both electricity supply and environmental conditions in the region.

"Our operational areas are witnessing fires causing substantial damage to our power installations, particularly the poles and equipment," he told the county forum.

Jagongo also addressed the financial strain and operational disruptions caused by frequent fires, urging proactive measures to curb such incidents.

"Replacing fire-damaged power infrastructure requires substantial effort and time, leading to prolonged power supply disruptions and huge financial and reputational losses to the power company," said Jagongo.

Eng. Lewis Maina from the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) Coast Regional office attributes bushfires to contractors conducting bush clearing along major roads, sparking wildfires, prompting a call for greater oversight in such activities.

"We have realised that rogue contractors carrying out routine road maintenance and bush clearing are the cause of the fires causing significant disruptions to motorists," said Maina.

Commissioner Orinde expressed concern over the setting up of fires near electricity poles and main roads, emphasising the safety risks and announcing plans for stricter penalties against offenders.

"I have witnessed a series of fire incidents along the Kombani-Kwale road resulting in poor visibility due to smoke, thus putting motorists' lives in danger. We cannot allow this reckless behaviour to continue," he warned.

He directed local authorities to raise awareness among residents and enforce preventive measures, especially for farmers when conducting land-clearing activities.

Residents are urged to report any instances of bushfires near electricity infrastructure to ensure the safety and well-being of all community members.