Big Push projects: PURC to engage Roads Ministry and other stakeholders over destruction of utility lines by contractors
According to him, the core of the problem is that contractors are often working without accurate maps showing the location of major utility installations.
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) is preparing to hold a significant stakeholder meeting with the Ministry of Roads and Highways and road contractors to address the issue of utility lines being damaged during road construction. This action stems from complaints from residents in areas undergoing road work under the government's Big Push infrastructure program, who have experienced water shortages and power outages following damage to underground pipelines and distribution lines.
During a visit to the Western Region on August 26, PURC Executive Secretary Dr. Shafic Suleman emphasized the Commission's concern over the issue and stated that the primary problem lies in contractors' lack of access to accurate maps indicating the locations of major utility installations. "It is crucial that we make these pipelines, transmission, and distribution lines available to contractors for guidance," Dr. Suleman explained, stressing that contractors must take responsibility for ensuring they do not destroy vital infrastructure.
The proposed engagement will involve representatives from the Ministry of Roads and Highways, contractors, and utility service providers such as the Ghana Water Company Limited, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), and the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo). The main goal is to ensure contractors receive detailed utility maps before commencing construction and adhere to standard operating procedures to safeguard existing infrastructure.
Dr. Suleman warned that if damage persists, the PURC will promptly restore services to affected consumers but will charge the responsible contractor for the full cost of restoration.
He highlighted that these disruptions are more than mere inconveniences; they directly impact the livelihoods of communities, forcing hospitals, schools, and small businesses to close for days due to prolonged outages. The PURC has already received numerous complaints from affected communities and has formally communicated its concerns to the Ministry of Roads and Highways.
The upcoming stakeholder meeting aims to shift the focus from reactive resolution of complaints to proactive measures for protecting utility assets and safeguarding consumer rights.
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