TCN begins rehabilitation of 4 vandalised towers in Rivers

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) says  rehabilitation works have commenced on the four vandalised towers along the Afam/IPP/Elelenwo 132 Kilo Volt (kV) Double Circuit Transmission Line in Rivers.

The management of the company said this in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday night.

The company said that the affected towers, identified as T50, T51, T52 and T53, were detected on Aug.6 by its linesmen.

It said that further inspection revealed that critical bracing members had been removed from the towers, compromising the structural integrity of all four towers.

”Following this, TCN urgently mobilised to site, a contractor that would effect the repairs.

”A formal handover ceremony was held Tuesday, by the Port Harcourt Transmission Region to mark the commencement of the rehabilitation works,” it said.

Speaking during the handover, Mr Azu Lucky,  Head of Lines, Port Harcourt Transmission Region, who represented the management of company, emphasised the need for greater community involvement in protecting transmission infrastructure.

Lucky called on the residents of Elelenwo, their traditional rulers, and the Local Government Chairman to assist TCN in the fight against vandals as the rehabilitation works progressed.

He also said that sustained community awareness and cooperation were essential to preventing further vandalism.

”We are mindful of the risk that vandalism of these towers poses to reliable transmission of electricity along the corridor.

”The company will do everything possible to ensure the timely completion of the rehabilitation works.

”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,” he said.

He said that the cooperation of the communities was critical to safeguarding the rehabilitated infrastructure and ensuring reliable power transmission along the line.