In the Ashanti Region, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is battling a growing threat—crows damaging power infrastructure and causing frequent blackouts.

Officials at ECG’s Ashanti Sub-Transmission Region say the birds have been attacking power lines and installations. These attacks are disrupting electricity supply across several districts.

Collins Manu, Public Relations Officer for the division, said the team is working hard to stop the interruptions and maintain consistent power. “We’re focused on restoring the system and improving service,” he said.

Recent reports show high-risk areas include Barekese in Atwima Nwabiagya North, Akyawkrom in Ejisu, Effiduase and Kumawu in Sekyere East and Sekyere Kumawu, as well as Bekwai, New Edubiase, and Manso Nkwanta in Amansie East, Adansi South, and Amansie West.

In one alarming case, engineers discovered 92 crow nests along the Akyawkrom-Kuntenase-Bekwai transmission lines. Many nests contained metal parts, which triggered faults and damaged equipment.

The birds also cause electrical failures with their droppings. During humid weather, the droppings create conductive paths on lines, breaking insulation and raising maintenance costs.

To respond, ECG engineers, including Ing. Frederick Kwabena Bediako and Ing. Daniel Mensah Asare, have started inspecting the worst-hit locations.

The company has rolled out the following solutions:

Physical defenses like spikes, insulated covers, and perch blockers

Nesting control, using regular nest removal and non-conductive materials

System improvements, with stronger insulation and wider spacing between conductors

Behavioral deterrents such as distress sounds, reflective tape, and decoys

These actions aim to protect ECG’s network and keep electricity flowing reliably across Ashanti.