By Juliana Nwachukwu
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has cordoned off areas affected by fallen high tension electricity poles along the Awka Onitsha Expressway following Sept. 22 heavy rainfall and flooding.
The affected poles, belonging to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), reportedly fell around the Aroma Old Government House section of the expressway, leaving electrical wires exposed and posing potential risks to motorists, pedestrians and residents.
Following reports from residents, NSCDC operatives were deployed to the area to barricade the affected section and restrict access.
The State Commandant, Commandant Maku Olatunde, said the intervention was part of the Corps’ mandate to protect critical national assets and infrastructure and safeguard lives and property.
Maku said the Command had alerted EEDC to urgently repair the damaged infrastructure, adding that NSCDC personnel would continue to monitor the area pending the arrival of the company’s technical team.
He warned residents against approaching or touching fallen poles and exposed electrical cables, noting that damaged power lines could remain hazardous even when there appeared to be no electricity supply.
The Command also advised residents to report fallen electricity poles, exposed cables and other threats to critical infrastructure to the appropriate authorities for prompt attention.
It urged residents to exercise caution during heavy rainfall and avoid flooded roads, drainage channels and fast moving water, while advising them to remain indoors where possible during severe weather.
Juliana Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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#CrititalInfrastucture
#PowerlineSafety
