FRIDAY, March 29, 2024
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MEA spearheads underground power distribution program with demolition of power poles on Rajvithi

MEA spearheads underground power distribution program with demolition of power poles on Rajvithi

To ensure that Bangkok is ready to take its position as a leading ASEAN metropolis,  Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) has signed a memorandum of cooperation to transform the existing overhead system of electricity and communications cables to be an underground system within MEA’s area of responsibility.

Parties to the agreement include the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Royal Thai Police, TOT Public Company Limited and the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). The first phase of this project will cover a total route length of 127.3 kilometers.

Most recently, MEA and the four agencies jointly announced the demolition of power poles in the Rajvithi Road area in accordance with the plan at a meeting at Pramongkutkhlao Hospital.

MEA has received good cooperation and support from concerned agencies, which is integral to the efficient progress and successful outcome of the scheme. Demolition of the power poles represents the final stage of the project following system design, construction of manholes and the medium-voltage electrical conduit system in preparation for installation of the medium-voltage cables, construction of conduits for low-voltage power lines along the pavements as well as conduits for communications cables. The operation concludes with installation of new street lights and finally demolition of the power poles. The Rajvithi Road project, which has been undertaken successfully and in accordance with plans, will serve as a prototype model for similar integrated operations in future. Experience and information gained from the project will be used to ensure successful outcomes in subsequent projects. Following completion of the project, the stability of the power distribution system will be improved, the area will be beautified and the possibility of power outages caused by accidents and natural disasters will be greatly reduced, safeguarding the lives and property of the public.   

MEA has previously replaced overhead power lines with underground systems in several areas within its area of responsibility, including Silom, Pathumwan, Chitrlada, Phyathai, Phaholyothin and Sukhumvit, and is currently undertaking similar projects at Nonsi, Rama III, Ratchadaphisek-Asok and Ratchadaphisek-Rama IX as well as along major roads, mass transit system routes and in areas of major public facilities and business districts. High-voltage transmission lines are being undertaken first followed by low-voltage lines. This long-term project is being undertaken over a period of 10 years (2016-2025) with a total investment cost of Bt48.717 billion.

The operational framework for the project is to be completed within five years, according to the government’s specifications. MEA will speed up operations in order to complete the projects within schedule in areas without obstacles except for certain areas that overlap with projects of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), which will require a joint plan of action.

In all projects, MEA provides effective communications channels and information to facilitate understanding and cooperation from anyone who may be affected in the area, which will in turn ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Additional areas to be undertaken in 2016 after the Rajvithi Road project include Ratchaprarop, Sri Ayudhya, Yothi, Petchaburi, and Rama I Roads. MEA and all related agencies will make every effort to expedite the work with the least possible impacts to the local people.

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