MalaysiaGIS.com

Source: The New Straits Times

Its executive chairman, Datuk Dr. Ahmad Tajuddin Ali, said the GIS was now being installed in all 66 districts in the country.

The system provides computerised and comprehensive information on the location of underground electricity cables.

"Some of the data that we have now goes back to the days of the Central Electricity Board, before 1965. Some of these underground cables are still there. By adopting the GIS, our staff will be able to better plan and supervise their work," Tajuddin said after the opening of the Johor Baru city centre main intake station today.

The station, which uses the more reliable Gas Insulated Switchgears technology, was opened by State Executive Councillor Adam Abdul Hamid.

Tajuddin said the GIS exercise would also provide a clearer picture on how each cable was connected to the sub-stations and main stations.

As a short-term measure, ha said Tenaga Nasional had been sending its staff on daily patrols to monitor and ensure there was no illegal digging of roads and cables. "Our staff go out on motorcycles every day to check on development projects to ensure the developers have permits to carry out road digging and do not damage the wiring."

He said this measure had proven successful, with a 82 per cent reduction in power failure nationwide this year, compared to last year.

Tajuddin added that only one third of electricity cable tripping and power failure was due to faulty Tenaga Nasional equipment and upgrading work.

He said bad weather, falling trees and disturbance of cables by reptiles and animals were other major causes of blackouts.

"Damage of underground cables by contractors and road accidents have also caused disruption in power supply. In the case of errant contractors, we have managed to nab a few culprits but unfortunately in most cases, we only find out later when water seeps into the cable."