Wayleave corridor is the distance from the centre of voltage transmission power lines which varies in value according to the transmission voltage in the electric lines and is supposed to be clear of any activities.
The law prohibits the public to undertake or engage in any activity in the vicinity of any electrical installation in a manner likely to interfere with the installation or cause danger to a person or property. Additionally, the electricity system produces extremely low frequency electromagnetic field which comes under non ionizing radiations which can cause health effects.
The cases of encroachment on the transmission network include buildings, markets, and brick making and planting of tall vegetation which touch the conductors within the corridor.
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| 66kV transmission line passing over houses in Chilobwe, Blantyre |
What are Electric and Magnetic fields
Electromagnetism is a fundamental physical force that is responsible for interactions between charged particles which occur because of their charge and for the emission and absorption of photons referred to as electromagnetic force. Electric and magnetic fields, often referred to as electromagnetic fields (emf) occur naturally and as a result of the Power generation, Power Transmission, Power distribution and use of electric power.emf is a field of force and is created by electric voltage and current. It occurs around electrical devices or whenever power lines are energized.Magnetic fields result from the motion of the electric charge or current, such as when there is current flowing through a power line. Magnetic field lines run in circles around the conductor (i.e. produces magnetic induction on objects and induced currents inside them). This phenomenon is also possible in human and animal or any other conducting bodies causing possible health effects and a multitude of interference problems. The higher the current, the greater the strength of the magnetic field.
