Residents of Oti Region are urging authorities to take immediate action to protect electricity poles from bushfires as the harmattan season sets in, citing strong winds fueled by the region’s mountainous terrain.
The appeal follows concerns that the dry weather conditions and strong winds could lead to devastating fires that could destroy the electricity infrastructure in the area.
The residents are already struggling with a low power supply, and the thought of further disruptions will be a worry to them.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Mr. Kelvin Obrempong, a businessman at Kete-Krachi, said the destruction of electricity poles by bushfires has become a recurring issue in the region, causing power outages and disrupting economic activities.
He urged the Oti Regional Coordinating Council (ORCC) to collaborate with the ECG management and award a contract to create fire belts around the poles to prevent the spread of fires.
Mr. Seth Kumah, also a resident of Kparekpare community in the Krachi East municipality, echoed concerns about the vulnerability of high-tension electricity poles to bushfires.
He explained that the high-tension poles are very susceptible to damage from bushfires, and it is a worry for them.
The harmattan season typically brings dry and windy conditions, increasing the risk of bushfires and with these, many residents who were engaged by GNA urged authorities in the region to take proactive measures to prevent fires and protect the poles.
