THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo has strongly criticised service providers for irresponsibly hanging cables on electricity poles, posing hazards to pedestrians and tourists.
Lobo warned that he would direct panchayats and the electricity department to remove all such cables in his and his wife’s constituencies if service providers fail to organise them properly.
Lobo partially supported the electricity department's initiative to cut down dangling cables, noting that their disorderly placement has led to accidents involving pedestrians and tourists.
“I will write to the panchayats and the electricity department to ensure that all dangling cables in our constituencies are removed. We are prepared to take on the service providers legally if needed. If they cause inconvenience, we don’t need their services,” he stated.
The State government recently halted the electricity department’s move to cut fibre optic and other cables after public outrage over disrupted internet services in institutions and government offices.
However, Lobo maintained that internet providers must adopt a systematic approach while stringing cables to prevent obstructions.
Highlighting the dangers, Lobo pointed out that large bundles of entangled cables are often found at the base of electricity poles, creating tripping hazards for pedestrians.
“People walking on roads frequently trip on these cables and fall. Some even get entangled at the neck. Several tourists have been injured during morning walks due to these hanging cables,” he said.
Lobo also criticised service providers for failing to remove old and unused cables, which further contribute to the mess.
“Each electricity pole has multiple bundles of cables, with almost 50% of them being non-functional. When asked, no service provider takes responsibility. Then whose cables are they?” he questioned.
He further pointed out that fallen cables on roads create difficulties for pedestrians, especially in market areas.
“Municipalities and panchayats refuse to take responsibility for removing these cables, leaving the public at risk,” he said.
As a solution, Lobo suggested that cables should be strung at least 7.5 feet above the ground to avoid obstructing pedestrians.
He urged service providers to take immediate corrective measures to prevent further risks to public safety.
