Metn residents shocked high-voltage lines may still be installed

Al Mansourieh and Ain Saadeh residents are discussing steps to be taken and renewing their objection to the installation of above ground high-voltage lines. The residents announced on Wednesday that they are planning to take it to the street at the beginning of next week.  

Residents ruled out the idea of the state purchasing their homes and the head of the residents’ follow-up committee said that most of the buildings in the area existed before high-voltage pylons were even installed.  

Residents deny that only 58 residencies will be affected, wondering why apartments of the Maronite housing project are not included in the compensation plan.  

The residents are also threatening to resort to sit-ins in case concerned authorities attempt to forcibly install power lines, reminding everyone that the alternative would be to install underground power lines.    

The plan to install high-voltage lines in the Metn area seeks to connect a power plant in Mkalles to another in Bsallim. The controversial plan was fiercely opposed in 2005 by Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) MPs, but FPM Minister Jibran Bassil decided to go through with the plan in 2009 when he was tasked to lead the Energy Ministry.

Bassil argues that the plan does not pose any grave health threat for area residents amid fear over the potential risks of strong electromagnetic fields.