The statement followed a stakeholders’ engagement, meeting on the streetlight rehabilitation project during which the contractor raised concerns about unauthorised structures built over critical underground cables.

The statement said the encroachments had significantly impeded repair and maintenance activities in several locations affecting the timely restoration and functionality of streetlights across the city.

It said underground cables installed for public street lighting constituted critical infrastructure that must be kept free from encroachment.
It explained that the construction of buildings, walls, kiosks, slabs or any permanent or temporary structures over the cables posed safety risks and obstructed the delivery of essential public services.
It said, “The Assembly hereby directs all affected persons to remove such structures without delay to allow the contractor unimpeded access to carry out the necessary works.”

The statement cautioned that failure to comply would compel the TaMA to enforce existing laws and regulations without further notice.
It appealed for cooperation and noted that improved street lighting was essential for enhanced security and safer roads within the Metropolis.