Fatshimetrie recently investigated the construction of houses under the high-voltage lines of the National Electricity Company and on riverbeds in Lubumbashi. A delegation of provincial deputies from Haut Katanga went to the field to see the situation first-hand.
Local authorities described these constructions as anarchic, stressing the danger they represent for residents. Indeed, according to SNEL, buildings must be located at least 25 meters from high-voltage lines for safety reasons. However, many constructions have been built under these lines, exposing occupants to increased risk in the event of an accident.
It is also worrying to note that some homes have been built on the bed of the Lubumbashi River, while others are located near these waterways. Residents in these areas are frequently confronted with flooding and water-borne diseases, such as cholera.
The visit of the provincial deputies helped to highlight these worrying situations. Killer Mubambe, Head of the Delegation, stressed the importance of respecting safety standards for the construction of houses. He stressed that houses located too close to high voltage lines represent a danger to their inhabitants and must be moved.
It is essential that local authorities take measures to remedy this situation. Residents must be made aware of the risks involved and guided towards safer solutions for their housing. This is a public safety issue that cannot be neglected.
In conclusion, the construction of houses under high voltage lines and on riverbeds in Lubumbashi is a worrying issue that requires immediate action. It is imperative to ensure the safety of residents by moving constructions deemed unsafe and by raising awareness of the risks involved.