SEB to convert underground cables to overhead lines

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An underground cable supplying the streetlights along Lutong-Kuala Baram road which has been damaged by thieves (File photo).

An underground cable supplying the streetlights along Lutong-Kuala Baram road which has been damaged by thieves (File photo).

A vandalised streetlight pole along Lutong-Kuala Baram road (File photo).

A vandalised streetlight pole along Lutong-Kuala Baram road (File photo).

MIRI: Sarawak Energy Bhd will convert the current underground cables to overhead lines to keep them away from the clutches of thieves and vandals and keep the road bright for the safety of all users.

This would be undertaken by its operating arm Sesco to keep streetlights along Lutong-Kuala Baram road safe and secure from hardware thieves and vandals.

Sesco will invest around RM220,000 in this proactive measure to convert the underground cables to overhead lines.

In a statement received here yesterday, SEB said rampant theft and vandalism had caused streetlights along the stretch to malfunction making it unsafe for road users at night.

“Theft cases along the stretch seem to occur frequently and several police reports have been lodged,” the statement added.

The most recent case saw the neutral wire stolen, causing unstable voltage and damage to the street lights’ components.

Sesco’s technical team has already replaced the stolen parts for 30 electricity poles and repair works are expected to be completed within two weeks.

In the past, thieves stole underground cables, control boxes, lighting components and mains wiring.

The constant repair and replacement of stolen and damaged parts have cost the utility company RM95,000 since 2015.

There are 630 lamp posts along the Lutong-Kuala Baram stretch and Sesco has already converted 249 spans to overhead lines. Priority is given to poles close to residential areas.

Sarawak Energy senior vice president (Distribution) Lau Kim Swee said the company had repeatedly appealed to the public to stop the theft and vandalism of its properties.

“Rampant hardware theft has caused malfunctioning streetlights which can endanger the lives of road users. Please help keep our streets safe and bright by putting a stop to this irresponsible act, ” he said.

The public should report any suspicious activities in the area to assist the authorities. All information will be kept confidential.

Sarawak Energy Bhd can be contacted at 1300-88-3111.