In Kasumbalesa, the worrying situation of the anarchic occupation of the right-of-way of line 81 by illegal constructions is at the heart of the concerns of the Southern Provincial Director of the National Electricity Company (SNEL), Jean-Marie Mutombo Ngoy. This serious threat to ongoing projects is alarming and requires immediate action to preserve the integrity of strategic infrastructure.
The 220 kV high-voltage line, essential for energy exchanges between southern African countries, has become the target of acts of vandalism and wild urbanization that dangerously compromise the rehabilitation efforts undertaken by SNEL. This unacceptable situation prompted Jean-Marie Mutombo to express his desolation in the face of what he describes as “serious dispossession”.
During his official visit to Kasumbalesa, accompanied by a provincial delegation, Jean-Marie Mutombo vigorously condemned these illegal actions. The presence of vandalized and overturned pylons of Line 81, as well as illegal constructions on the periphery of the high-voltage lines, demonstrates a flagrant lack of respect for the State’s heritage.
Faced with this critical situation, the provincial director has clearly indicated that strict measures will be taken to restore order. The illegal occupants are ordered to vacate the premises before any intervention by the authorities, under penalty of seeing their constructions demolished. This coercive action aims to restore the integrity of the Line 81 right-of-way and to protect the essential infrastructure for the regional energy interconnection.
It is essential that all parties involved in this anarchic occupation become aware of the negative impact of their actions and cooperate with the authorities to resolve this problem. The collaboration between SNEL and local authorities is essential to guarantee the security and sustainability of these vital energy infrastructures.
This delicate situation underlines the crucial importance of preserving public heritage and enforcing the laws and regulations regarding the occupation of public property. SNEL remains committed to carrying out its projects to rehabilitate and expand electricity infrastructure, with the aim of improving access to electricity in the Haut-Katanga region and beyond.
In conclusion, the protection of strategic energy infrastructure is a major issue to ensure the stability and socio-economic development of the region. It is imperative to put an end to all forms of illegal occupation and to preserve the integrity of electricity infrastructure to ensure a reliable supply of electricity to the population.