… Frowns at Encroachment on Power Lines’ Right of Way Despite Clampdown
The Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) has issued a strong warning to property owners, developers, and residents, urging them to desist from constructing buildings or any other structures under high-tension power lines, describing such acts as illegal and dangerous.
Speaking on the persistent encroachment on power lines’ right-of-way, the General Manager of LASPPPA, TPL Kehinde Osinaike, decried the rising disregard for safety guidelines and physical planning laws.
He noted that despite ongoing enforcement actions by relevant authorities, some individuals still ignore the grave dangers associated with building too close to or directly beneath power lines.
“Constructing under or near high-tension power lines is not only a clear violation of the state’s planning regulations but also a serious safety hazard. It exposes construction workers, maintenance personnel, and building occupants to the risk of electric shock, fire outbreaks, and even fatalities,” Osinaike warned.
He explained that such illegal developments can also hinder the operations of power companies. “Power infrastructure requires unrestricted access for routine maintenance, emergency repairs, and upgrades. When structures obstruct these lines, it leads to unnecessary delays, higher operational costs, and sometimes partial demolition of the illegal structures,” he added.
Osinaike stressed that the minimum safe distance between any structure and overhead power lines must be determined by the voltage level, advising residents to always maintain at least 10 feet clearance for lines carrying up to 50 kilovolts. For higher voltages, he noted, greater distances are required.
The General Manager, therefore, appealed to all Lagosians to comply with building regulations and avoid risky shortcuts that put lives and properties in jeopardy.
He reaffirmed LASPPPA’s commitment to sustaining the clampdown on illegal constructions, stressing that the Authority would not hesitate to remove any structure found to be encroaching on the power lines’ right-of-way.
“Building right and building safe is our shared responsibility. We urge everyone to do the right thing to protect lives and support the state’s urban development goals,” Osinaike stated.