A source close to the matter has informed Sahara Media that the Mauritanian commission of inquiry into the two consecutive fires at Nouakchott's electricity transformation posts is set to submit its report to Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diay on Tuesday. The commission, which has been conducting investigations for several weeks, aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the devastating fires that caused significant power outages in various parts of the capital city.
The fires, which occurred in August, affected the eastern and western transformation posts in Nouakchott. The first fire broke out at the eastern post, a 33/15 kV tension station, causing power outages in parts of the Toujounine, Dar Naïm, and Arafat districts. The following day, a second fire erupted at the western sub-station, disrupting electricity supply to a large part of Tevrag Zeina, vast areas of Ksar and Sebkha, as well as critical infrastructure such as Nouakchott's international airport, the port of Tanit, and the Aghneoudert region.
In response to the incidents, a commission of inquiry was established to determine the direct and indirect causes of the fires, identify those responsible, and assess the management of the incidents, including the restoration of power supply and emergency plans. The commission, chaired by Ousmane Mamoudou Kane, comprises members Sidi Mohamed Ould Beida, Ousmane Tal, Mohamed El Kori Chein, and Mohamedou Yahya Baba, as well as experts from Swiss and German companies ECG and INTEC.
During its investigation, the commission has interviewed officials and employees of the Mauritanian Electricity Company (Somelec), representatives of equipment suppliers, and dozens of individuals who provided testimony on the circumstances of the fires and the operating conditions of the two power plants. The commission's comprehensive investigation aims to provide a thorough understanding of the incidents and inform measures to prevent similar events in the future.
The commission's report is expected to provide a detailed account of the incidents, highlighting areas of responsibility, and recommending measures to enhance the reliability and resilience of Nouakchott's electricity infrastructure. The report's submission to the Prime Minister marks a critical step towards addressing the concerns of affected communities and ensuring a stable power supply for the capital city.
The impact of the fires on Nouakchott's residents and businesses has been significant, with many experiencing disruptions to their daily lives and operations. The commission's findings and recommendations are anticipated to inform a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the effects of such incidents and improve the overall performance of the electricity sector in Mauritania.
As the commission prepares to submit its report, stakeholders are eagerly awaiting the findings and recommendations that will shape the future of electricity infrastructure development and management in Nouakchott. The Mauritanian government's response to the report's conclusions will be closely watched, as it seeks to address the concerns of citizens and ensure a reliable power supply for the country's capital.
Key points
- The Mauritanian commission of inquiry into the two consecutive fires at Nouakchott's electricity transformation posts is set to submit its report to Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diay on Tuesday.
- The fires, which occurred in August, caused significant power outages in various parts of Nouakchott, affecting critical infrastructure and disrupting daily life.
- The commission's report is expected to provide a detailed account of the incidents, highlighting areas of responsibility, and recommending measures to enhance the reliability and resilience of Nouakchott's electricity infrastructure.
