The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (Ketraco) has blamed encroachment along the high-voltage power line between Sondu Miriu and Ndhiwa for the delayed operationalisation of the Ndhiwa substation.
Ketraco’s Senior Manager in charge of Project Management and Construction, Engineer Justine Muna, said several structures have been erected directly beneath or dangerously close to the 132,000-volt transmission line, posing serious safety risks and hindering the commissioning of the facility.
Eng. Muna noted that the company issued notices to occupants living along the corridor and compensated those affected, but some residents have refused to vacate despite the directives.
Ketraco managers have now given remaining occupants up to Thursday this week to move out, warning that security officers will be deployed to remove those who defy the order.
Homa Bay County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi accused some individuals of illegally encroaching on the wayleave, including high-priority sections where at least seven structures sit directly beneath the line.
Mr. Mwiwawi said affected families have been informed to vacate immediately, adding that they have no alternative but to comply.
He emphasized that reliable electricity supply is critical for economic growth and attracting investors, noting that the government is committed to ensuring constant power in the region to support development.
