The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has advised Ghanaians, especially rural residents, to desist from setting fire to bushes during the dry season. According to the power distribution company, the incidents of bushfires are affecting stable power supply, and increasing the cost of maintenance.
According to a Myjoyonline report yesterday, the General Manager of ECG in the Volta/Oti Regions, Christina Jatoe- Kaleo, speaking to the media in Ho, explained the unfortunate incident also hampers the effective execution of extension projects in underserved areas.
She further indicated that when the poles are burnt, businesses are affected as power goes off, leading to the loss of productive hours and revenue. She disclosed that ten electricity poles were burnt between December 2023 and 10th January 2024 in her jurisdiction, which would cost her outfit about GH₵ 70,000 to replace the affected poles.
The correlation between bushfires and disruptions in power supply might not be immediately evident to all, but the impacts are substantial. The ECG’s statement sheds light on how these seemingly unrelated issues are interconnected. Bushfires pose a significant threat to the infrastructure and equipment essential for ensuring a consistent and stable power supply across the country. The damages incurred due to these fires result in increased maintenance costs and, in some instances, prolonged power outages.
The call to action is not solely upon the Electricity Company; it is a collective responsibility shared by every Ghanaian. Rural residents, especially, must heed to this advise and understand that the consequences extend far beyond the charred fields. The spillover effects impact households, industries and the economy at large.
In fact, the ecological devastation caused by these fires cannot be overstated. The loss of biodiversity, destruction of habitats and degradation of arable land pose long-term challenges to sustainable development.
Education and community engagement are pivotal in addressing this issue. Efforts must be intensified to raise awareness about the adverse effects of bushfires, promote responsible land management practices and encourage alternative methods for land clearing that do not involve setting fires.
The Chronicle urges local authorities, environmental agencies, community leaders and citizens to collaborate closely in instituting proactive measures. This includes implementing stricter regulations, increasing surveillance and initiating educational campaigns aimed at mitigating the incidence of bushfires.
The preservation of our environment and the stability of our power supply are inextricably intertwined. As responsible citizens, let us unite in our commitment to preventing bushfires, protecting our natural resources and ensuring uninterrupted power supply for the benefit of the nation’s progress.
It is incumbent upon us all to act decisively and responsibly.
