Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) is inspecting and upgrading power infrastructure in various parts of the country as part of preparations to minimise disruptions and safety risks associated with El Niño rains.
The utility is assessing infrastructure in areas vulnerable to flooding, landslides and other weather-related hazards, while addressing weaknesses identified during the inspections.
TANESCO Director of Communications and Customer Services Irene Gowelle said the utility was taking preventive measures to ensure reliable and safe electricity supplies during the rainy season.
She urged residents to report damaged or vulnerable infrastructure, including fallen, rotten or leaning electricity poles, before they cause accidents or disrupt power supplies.
“Residents can notify TANESCO if they identify a fallen, rotten or leaning pole. They can take pictures and send them through our social media platforms or WhatsApp groups, or call 180 so that we can respond and repair the problem before it causes damage,” Ms Gowelle said during TBC’s Jambo Tanzania programme on Tuesday.
TANESCO Health and Safety Manager Fred Kayega also stressed the importance of early reporting, particularly when trees fall on electricity infrastructure or when other conditions pose risks to people and power facilities.
He said timely intervention would help prevent accidents and reduce the impact of extreme weather on electricity infrastructure.
Meanwhile, TANESCO Communications Manager Agustino Kasale said the utility had also strengthened preparations to manage rising water levels in dams used for power generation.
Speaking on ITV’s Kumekucha programme, Mr Kasale said the dams had been constructed with provisions for different water levels and were fitted with equipment to monitor changes in water volumes.
“If water reaches the maximum level, procedures are followed to release it, while residents living near the dams are alerted so they can take precautions early,” he said.
TANESCO has urged the public to remain vigilant during the rainy season and report any condition that could threaten electricity safety through 180 or the utility’s other official communication channels.
The call comes as authorities continue preparations for possible heavy rainfall, with early identification of risks seen as key to protecting lives, infrastructure and continuity of electricity services.