Police called in as contractor leaves scene after damaging GPL’s high-voltage line

…as 2-hour power outage hits Eccles, Ruimveldt

Residents and businesses in the Eccles and Ruimveldt areas experienced a temporary power outage on Monday afternoon after a high-voltage line was damaged by a contractor’s equipment. According to a statement from the Public Utilities and Aviation Ministry, the incident occurred at 16:46h when a machine operated by Moore and Son Establishment, working on Caneview Avenue near a new hotel, came into contact with the line, causing it to rupture. The contractor reportedly left the scene without notifying the Guyana Power and Light (GPL).

GPL responded quickly, dispatching a technical team to restore power, which was re-established by 18:01h. The Ministry in a statement condemned the contractor’s actions, describing them as careless and highlighting the risks posed when equipment comes into contact with GPL infrastructure. The Ministry said it has instructed GPL to involve the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in the matter, citing the costs, inconvenience to customers and potential revenue losses caused by such incidents. The Ministry has issued a warning to all contractors operating near GPL’s network to exercise caution and responsibility, noting that failure to comply could lead to punitive measures.