Blackout Hits Two States as Vandals Destroy TCN Towers
By Wisdom Tide
October 19, 2024
Some regions in Kano and Kaduna states are currently facing a power outage following the destruction of two transmission towers belonging to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The blackout, which has affected parts of these states, is the result of vandalism on TCN’s critical infrastructure.
Destruction of Key Transmission Towers
The spokesperson for TCN, Ndidi Mbah, revealed the details of the incident in an official statement on Friday. According to Mbah, the damaged towers—T133 and T136—are located along the 330-kilovolt Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines, which are critical for delivering bulk power to the region.
“These towers are part of the main lines that supply electricity to parts of the North West, with each line capable of carrying 600MW of power,” Mbah stated. “Their destruction presents a significant challenge to the stability of bulk power transmission in the area.”
Emergency Restoration Measures Underway
In response to the crisis, TCN is preparing to deploy its newly acquired Emergency Restoration System to the site. This system is designed to temporarily restore power transmission while permanent repairs are made. “We are committed to re-erecting the towers and restringing the transmission lines to restore full power transmission through both 330kV lines,” Mbah added.
In the meantime, interim solutions are being implemented. Engineers have rerouted bulk power supply to the affected regions through the 330kV Kaduna-Jos transmission line. This measure is intended to mitigate the impact of the outage on Kano and Kaduna.
Security and Monitoring Enhanced
Given the region's vulnerability to banditry, TCN has stepped up security measures to protect its infrastructure and personnel. An aerial survey, conducted in partnership with security agencies, has been launched to monitor the affected area and prevent further incidents. In addition, local vigilantes have been mobilized to patrol the transmission lines, ensuring the safety of remaining infrastructure.
Impact on Power Supply
The vandalized Shiroro-Kaduna 330kV lines 1 and 2 are among the primary transmission routes that supply power to parts of the North West. The destruction of these lines has created a severe disruption in electricity supply to the region. However, TCN has assured the public that efforts to restore power are in full swing, with plans for permanent repairs already underway.
“The interim measures we have put in place will provide some relief, but full restoration will require time as we work on reconstructing the towers,” Mbah concluded.
TCN urges residents in the affected areas to remain patient as efforts continue to resolve the issue and restore reliable power supply.
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