São Paulo's Underground Cable Conundrum: Theft and Infrastructure Woes

São Paulo's Underground Cable Conundrum: Theft and Infrastructure Woes São Paulo, Brazil – The lack of buried electrical cables in Brazil, despite numerous government projects, is a persistent problem. Paulo Durci, CEO of Crossfox Elétrica, a leading electrical cable company, recently shed light on the issue in an interview with Jovem Pan News. Durci explained that widespread cable theft is a major deterrent, stating, "The ease of theft in Brazil makes burying cables impractical." He also highlighted the risk of damaging gas lines during the installation process as another significant concern. The situation presents a stark contrast between Brazil and other developed nations where underground cabling is standard. This not only impacts the aesthetics of cities but also contributes to frequent power outages and safety hazards. The high cost of security measures, including cameras and private security, further complicates the problem. Despite these challenges, some progress is being made. In certain secure locations like gated communities, underground cabling is already in place. This demonstrates the feasibility of the solution, but the widespread implementation requires addressing the underlying issues of theft and infrastructure planning. Moving forward, more comprehensive strategies are needed to combat cable theft and improve infrastructure planning. This includes stricter law enforcement, community engagement, and possibly government subsidies to encourage the adoption of safer and more efficient underground cabling systems.