PARA – Large sections of the Para District experienced a blackout when an important 33 kV utility pole that is located along the Kennedyweg fell down because of a grass fire. Reports indicate that areas such as Onverwacht, Republiek, Krakaweg and the road to Matta were without electricity for at least 8 hours. People often set fire to the grass that is located alongside the road. These fires could have serious consequences for the Energy Company Suriname (EBS) and its customers because the utility poles that are part of the energy grid are located next to the roads. The utility poles are usually made of wood and therefore catch fire quickly especially in the dry season. Strong winds cause the fire to spread quickly. The EBS urges people to refrain from setting fire to grass as this reckless behaviour results in financial losses and unnecessary expenses…[+]