Fenaka Corporation Extends Deadline to Fix Streetlights in 144 Islands After Safety Norm Violations

Fenaka Corporation has announced an extension for island councils to rectify safety violations in streetlights installed across 144 islands. This decision follows a tragic incident in May where an 18-year-old youth died while trying to address an electrical leak from a streetlight in Ungoofaaru.

In response to the incident, Fenaka conducted a comprehensive inspection of streetlights nationwide to ensure compliance with safety standards. During a press conference, Fenaka Managing Director Muaz Mohamed Rasheed stated that island councils now have until August 21 to bring streetlights up to safety standards, extending the initial deadline of June 27.

"Many councils indicated the need for additional time to regularize streetlight operations," Rasheed explained. "Based on this feedback, we decided to extend the deadline by another month. August 21 will be the final date, after which power will be cut from streetlights that do not comply with safety norms."

Rasheed emphasized that island councils should request government assistance to meet the safety standards by the deadline. Failure to comply will result in the councils bearing the responsibility to rectify the issues independently.

An inquiry by the Utility Regulatory Authority (URA) revealed that many islands lack Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELCBs) on their streetlights, posing significant safety risks. The URA has mandated the installation of ELCBs and other safety measures to prevent further incidents.

In most islands, Fenaka supplies electricity to streetlights, but maintenance is the responsibility of the local councils. The extension granted by Fenaka underscores the urgency of ensuring the safety and security of public lighting infrastructure.

As the deadline approaches, Fenaka Corporation remains committed to enforcing compliance to prevent any further tragedies and ensure the safety of residents across the Maldives.