Faulty transformer box caused TTEC blaze

An explosion in the transformer at the 33KV cable box was identified yesterday as the cause of the fire at TTEC’s Westmoorings substation on Monday. Yesterday, TTEC workmen were busy at work in a bid to replace the burnt-out cable box and transformer. Newsday was ordered out of the area by a TTEC official who described the area as a “high risk one,” and instructed a workman to close the gate leading to the area where the fire occurred on Monday afternoon. Sources revealed that the replacement work could take about two to three days before the substation is back to its full capacity.

Checks revealed that several homes in Petit Valley, Diamond Vale and certain parts of Carenage were still without a supply of electricity. Residents of Petit Valley told Newsday that power was restored around 10 pm on Monday, but throughout the night it was cut about three times. TTEC assured that the power would have been restored by 5 pm yesterday. Some business places revealed that they have been experiencing a dimming of lights and low power voltage. They fear that equipment could malfunction if the power surges continue.

A release issued yesterday by TTEC revealed that at 11.15 pm on Monday, the number one transformer at the substation which was out on maintenance, was brought back into service and electricity restored to customers in Diego Martin, parts of Petit Valley, Westmoorings, Carenage and Chaguaramas. TTEC officials said yesterday that although the cause of the fire has been identified, a probe has been launched into the matter, and an assessment will be done to determine the extent of the damage.