Lubumbashi, Haut-Katanga, is currently facing serious problems of access to water and electricity in several districts of the city. This situation stems from the collapse of two pylons of the national electricity company (SNEL) following an attempted theft of cables on the high voltage line.
In total, 48 cabins are deprived of connection to the SNEL network, thus depriving many residents of electricity. SNEL quickly reacted by announcing intensive work on the 50 KVA UNILU line, in order to replace the collapsed pylons. A team of agents is mobilized to ensure that this work progresses quickly and that electricity is restored to the neighborhoods concerned.
The Southern Regional Director of SNEL, Jean Marie Mutombo, deplores not only the frequent theft of cables on high voltage lines, but also the construction of brick kilns under these lines, which represents a danger for electrical installations. He thus calls for the security of these installations, which are part of the public heritage of the State.
For its part, REGIDESO, the water distribution authority in the DRC, informed subscribers in the municipalities of Lubumbashi, Kampemba, Ruashi and Annex of the interruption of the supply of drinking water since September 8. REGIDESO, however, assures that service will be restored as soon as the work on the collapsed pylons of the SNEL network is completed.
This situation highlights the importance of securing electrical infrastructure and the need to take measures to prevent cable theft. It also highlights the challenges faced by water and electricity distribution companies in ensuring continued access to these essential services for the population.
It is crucial that local and national authorities take appropriate measures to resolve these problems and ensure reliable water and electricity supplies in the city of Lubumbashi. This will require close collaboration between the different parties involved, as well as investment in modernizing and securing electrical and water infrastructure.