Islamabad, Feb 16: K-Electric (KE) has raised an urgent alarm over dangerous encroachments beneath high-voltage transmission lines in Baldia Town and Machhar Colony, warning that they pose severe safety risks to residents. The power utility has called on district authorities and the federal government to take immediate action, citing past fatalities, infrastructure damage, and power disruptions caused by illegal constructions.
In a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of Keamari, which was also shared with the federal government, KE identified 18 encroachments beneath 220 kV transmission lines in Baldia Town’s sectors 12 D, 12 E, and 21 A, along with 16 encroachments in Machhar Colony near ICI/Jinnah Bridge. The company has provided photographic evidence to substantiate its claims.
READ MORE: Finance Minister to Address IMF-Led Panel on Emerging Markets in Saudi Arabia
KE underscored that safety clearances for Extra High Tension (EHT) lines are explicitly defined under the National Electric Safety Code (NESC) and NEPRA Power Safety Code 2024. These regulations prohibit any construction under high-voltage lines due to the heightened risks of electrocution, fires, and structural damage. The mandated clearance for 220 kV transmission lines is a minimum of 6.4 meters above rooftops to ensure public safety.
Despite repeated warnings and public safety campaigns, KE stated that violations continue, creating life-threatening hazards. The company highlighted past incidents where illegal encroachments under power lines have resulted in tragic accidents and widespread power outages in Karachi.
To mitigate risks, KE has urged authorities to take swift action by dismantling illegal structures under its transmission network. The company has committed to providing a circuit shutdown to facilitate the safe removal of encroachments, ensuring minimal disruption while prioritizing public safety.
The power utility reiterated that enforcement of safety regulations is critical in preventing further casualties and protecting essential infrastructure. KE has called for stronger coordination with law enforcement agencies and district authorities to permanently eliminate unauthorized construction under high-voltage transmission lines.
