KEY POINTS
• TCN has started repairing four vandalised transmission towers in Rivers State.
• The damage involved the removal of critical structural members from the towers.
• The company is seeking community support to prevent further vandalism.
MAIN STORY
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has commenced rehabilitation of four transmission towers damaged by vandals along the Afam, IPP and Elelenwo 132kV Double Circuit Transmission Line in Rivers State.
The affected towers, identified as T50, T51, T52 and T53, were discovered by TCN linesmen on Aug. 6 during inspection of the transmission corridor.
Further checks showed that critical bracing members had been removed from the structures, weakening the towers and raising concerns about their ability to safely support the transmission line.
TCN subsequently mobilised a contractor to the site to begin repair work, with the Port Harcourt Transmission Region formally handing over the affected facilities on Tuesday to mark the start of rehabilitation.
Mr Azu Lucky, Head of Lines, Port Harcourt Transmission Region, who represented TCN management at the handover, said protecting the infrastructure would require stronger cooperation from communities along the corridor.
He appealed to residents of Elelenwo, traditional rulers and the local government chairman to support the company’s efforts to prevent vandalism while the rehabilitation is underway.
Lucky said TCN was aware of the threat that damage to the towers posed to electricity transmission along the corridor and pledged that the company would work to complete the repairs on schedule.
THE ISSUES
The removal of structural components from the four towers compromised their integrity and created a risk to the transmission infrastructure serving the corridor.
TCN’s appeal to local residents highlights the importance of community cooperation in protecting electricity infrastructure, particularly after the damaged towers are restored.
WHAT’S BEING SAID
“We are mindful of the risk that vandalism of these towers poses to reliable transmission of electricity along the corridor.” – Azu Lucky
“The company will do everything possible to ensure the timely completion of the rehabilitation works.” – Azu Lucky
“TCN appeals to residents of Elelenwo and surrounding communities to support the ongoing rehabilitation efforts and to remain vigilant against acts of vandalism around transmission facilities.” – Azu Lucky
WHAT’S NEXT
TCN will continue with the rehabilitation of the four towers and has called on surrounding communities to cooperate with the company and report acts of vandalism around transmission facilities.
BOTTOM LINE
TCN has begun repairing four transmission towers in Rivers after vandals removed critical structural members from them. The company says community cooperation will be important to protecting the rehabilitated infrastructure and maintaining reliable transmission along the corridor.
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