| Case | Challenge |
|---|---|
| Maskeliya 33Kv Gantry Construction, SESRIP project | Selected land for the gantry construction by CEB was a rock land |
The Maskeliya 33kV two-sided single busbar switching gantry, developed under the SESRIP project, presented a unique engineering challenge when the land allocated by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) was found to be predominantly rocky. Due to its long-term use for tea cultivation, the soil conditions were unsuitable for conventional earthing installation. Achieving the required earth resistance became difficult, as the only feasible location for proper earthing was near a footpath frequently used by local residents. This raised serious safety concerns, particularly regarding the potential risk to the community during lightning events, while restricting public access in the village environment was not a practical option.
Recognizing the technical and social implications of the situation, Electrical Engineer Dilini Wijayakumara, a graduate of the Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT), proposed an alternative and innovative earthing solution. Instead of relying solely on ground-based earthing near the footpath, she recommended integrating the gantry’s earthing system with the adjacent transmission towers located on both sides of the structure. This approach was carefully analyzed and evaluated to ensure compliance with design standards and safety requirements.
The proposed solution was subsequently approved and successfully implemented, achieving the required earth resistance for the gantry. Beyond meeting technical specifications, the design proved to be both cost-effective and environmentally responsible. Most importantly, it safeguarded the local community by minimizing potential risks during lightning events. This case reflects a true example of human-centric engineering, where technical excellence and community safety were balanced to deliver a sustainable and responsible solution.
