PLN difficult to relocate power poles

Batulicin, S Kalimantan (AntaranewsKalsel) - State electricity company PT PLN Rayon Batulicin, Tanah Bumbu District, South Kalimantan, is experiencing obstacles in relocating the power poles due to the widening of road.

PLN Manager Rayon Batulicin Eko Bagus Hariwibowo here on Monday said the relocation of approximately 56 electricity poles on Jalan Raya Gunung Tinggi, Batulicin, for three kilometers requires about one billion funds, but PLN has no funds.

"We previously coordinated with the Public Works Agency of Tanah Bumbu for the cost to be charged to the local government, but because of the high cost it also unable to bear it so it delegated back to PLN," he said.

Before moving the old power grid, PLN must build a new network to anticipate outages.

When the new network is completed, then the old one transfer to the new without having too long blackout.

"Currently we are coordinating with PLN center to discuss this problem by submitting budget planning related to the relocation of electricity network pylons and maintenance," he said.

He predicts if the problem can be resolved soon, then in early 2018 PLN Rayon Batulicin will soon make the transfer of electricity poles.

To anticipate the unwanted things, then PLN gives roadblocks for road users to be careful when passing.

"The signs must be watched out. If neglected when we are riding on the road the road we can hit power poles which are still in the middle of the road," he said.