Uzbekistan’s national grid operator warned farmers about the risks of lighting fires and storing waste near high-voltage networks, according to the company’s notice.
“Dear citizens and consumers, and hardworking farmers! Take care when carrying out seasonal agricultural work in fields next to high-voltage power networks. Storing waste and lighting fires in protected zones of trunk power networks and near high-voltage substations is prohibited,” the information service of O‘zbekiston milliy elektr tarmoqlari said.
The restrictions are set out in Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 1050 dated 26 December 2018. The rules prohibit actions that may cause a fire, harm the environment or disrupt the stable operation of electricity network facilities.
The following activities are prohibited in protected zones:
- throwing objects onto power lines or pylons, climbing pylons or damaging their components;
- blocking access routes to energy facilities with materials or other objects;
- lighting fires or burning crop residue near transmission lines and substations.
Mass gatherings, market stalls and dumps are also prohibited in these areas, as is storing or spilling fuel and lubricants.
Flames and smoke can ionise the air, cause short circuits, damage wires and lead to widespread power cuts. The company urged farmers to follow the rules during seasonal work.
The full guidance for agricultural producers is available on the transmission system operator’s website.
