At approximately 08:15 hours, Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) observed a dangerously negligent act by RZND Concrete and Delivery Company. Their extended concrete pump was positioned perilously over GPL’s 69,000-volt transmission line along the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara.
This critical 69 kV line is a vital link between GPL’s Sophia and Good Hope Substations, transmitting electricity to Regions Four and Five. Such reckless behavior posed an imminent and catastrophic risk to the integrity of GPL’s network. A single miscalculation could have triggered a major system failure, plunging tens of thousands of customers into widespread outages across the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System.
The potential consequences extend beyond service disruption, as this negligence could have resulted in serious injuries or fatalities, endangering workers, residents, and property in surrounding areas. Additionally, such actions carry severe financial implications for all stakeholders involved.
In response to this incident, GPL immediately alerted the Guyana Police Force (GPF), which detained representatives of RZND Concrete and Delivery Company. The Ministry of Labour was also notified due to the blatant disregard for safety protocols that placed lives at risk.
GPL is imploring all contractors and citizens to exercise vigilance and adhere to established safety standards and industry best practices. One simple step can prevent disaster: contact GPL at 226-2600 before commencing any work near electrical infrastructure. Failure to comply places lives, property, and the stability of the national electricity network in jeopardy.
Let it be unequivocally clear: GPL will not tolerate such reckless and dangerous practices. Any party found liable will face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.
Contact:
Guyana Power and Light Inc.
Phone: 226-2600
Email: info@gplinc.com
Together, let’s ensure a safe and reliable electricity network for all of Guyana.
