The sight of chaotic power cables in Jakarta is no longer unusual. In fact, this condition has injured road users several times.
Apparently, this chaotic cable condition will begin to be disciplined. The Association of Telecommunication Network Operators (Apjatel) will aggressively organize cables in big cities in Indonesia by moving them underground.
Apjatel will take this step in 2025, organizing and moving chaotic cables underground in Indonesia’s big cities.
Apjatel Chairman Jerry Mangasas Siregar said that cable management, which has been a problem, is a strategic program of Apjatel. So far, his party is communicating with consultants.
“Yes, next year, one of Apjatel’s strategic programs will be the arrangement of fibre optic utility networks nationwide. Currently, it is still in process with consultants and Apjatel’s internal team, for example the relocation we are doing in Jabodetabek which is planting cables,” he said, as reported by detiknews.
Jerry said the cable arrangement process will begin in the second quarter of 2025, focusing first on big cities, including Jabodetabek.
By moving the aerial cables into the ground, Jerry, who was just elected as Chairman of Apjatel for the 2024-2027 period, will not interfere with pedestrians, drivers, and others.
Jerry said the chaotic cables in other areas would be resolved with the concept of a shared pole, which is one pole that can facilitate existing cables.
Costs a lot
Of course, this process is not easy and requires a lot of money. Jerry hopes that the government will also respond to the arrangement of aerial cables in big cities.
He mentioned the huge cost of relocating the fibre optic cables so that the network arrangement can be made immediately.
“Organizing this network requires a lot of money. Well, we hope that the state will also intervene, help there, both the APBN and APBD because now there is a special minister for infrastructure,” he concluded.
Advantages of underground power cables
Underground electrical installation networks are starting to be widely used in urban areas because they do not disturb the beauty of the city.
In addition, underground cables are more sophisticated because they are weather resistant to lightning strikes and animal disturbances, such as birds.
Aesthetics
Underground power lines not only enhance the city’s aesthetics but also significantly improve public safety. The risk of accidents due to broken wires or lightning strikes is greatly reduced, making the city a safer place for everyone.
Weatherproof
Cable installations planted underground will make the electricity network more resistant to damage from bad and extreme weather.
For example, from scorching heat, strong winds, heavy rain, or lightning strikes. It also includes being safe from other disturbances, such as being hit by a tree, hit by a vehicle, or having power cables damaged by birds.
Minimal Magnetic Radiation
Underground cable installations are given additional protection because they are in the ground, so they have less magnetic radiation impact compared to upper cable installations.
More Durable
Underground electrical installations are not just a short-term solution. They are designed to last, with a lifespan that is three times longer than overhead lines. This durability ensures a reliable power supply for the city’s residents for years to come.
Photo by Syafirdaus Adam/Pexels
