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BINTULU, Aug 30: A third-party contractor involved in the road widening works at Kampung Baru, Belaga had inadvertently encroached upon the designated electricity line route without providing prior notification to Sarawak Energy Berhad, resulting in a utility pole with a lamp post standing inconveniently in the middle of the newly paved road.
As Sarawak Energy works with the relevant parties to address the issue, a section of the area around the pole has been cordoned off for the safety of road users.
Explaining the situation, Sarawak Energy’s regional manager for Bintulu, Jabu Ngumbang highlighted that the overhead lines had been in place for years, but the utility company was unaware of the road widening works and were taken by surprise when this incident was posted on social media.
“It is crucial that road construction contractors and relevant agencies notify us before starting any projects. This allows us to assess and, if necessary, relocate our installations.
“Taking this incident as an example, the current situation poses a danger to road users, and we want to prevent such occurrences in the future. Had the contractor reached out to us beforehand, we could have taken measures to address this issue,” he said in a statement today.
Jabu reiterated the call for all contractors to seek approval from Sarawak Energy before proceeding with any construction or excavation works.
“This precautionary step is crucial not only to prevent accidental damage to underground cables, but also to avoid unnecessary power supply interruptions. It also serves to protect the safety of both workers and the public,” he added.
Contractors are also urged to comply with the Electricity Ordinance, the Electricity Rules 1999, and the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 when carrying out any work near high-tension cables or other electrical infrastructure to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals involved.
Assuring the public, Jabu stated that Sarawak Energy is actively addressing the concerns raised about the electrical pole and acknowledges the safety concerns surrounding this issue.
He also reminded the public about the critical danger associated with being near any of Sarawak Energy’s live cables, electrical poles and overhead lines which carry the risk of serious injuries and potential loss of life through electrocution.
As such, motorists are strongly advised to exercise caution when travelling through this area and the public is urged to maintain a safe distance from all electrical lines and facilities.
For inquiries or to report safety concerns, members of the public may contact Sarawak Energy’s 24-hour Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111, send an email to customercare@sarawakenergy.com, chat with virtual agent CARINA, or make a report through the SEB Cares mobile app. — DayakDaily
