Brazilian utility firms CPFL and Copel remove illegal connections to improve safety

CPFL, with support from the Military Police, cleared dozens of illegal electrical hookups known locally as “gatos” from apartments in the Vila Jardim housing complex in Botucatu, São Paulo. The technicians identified clandestine wiring that posed a risk of electric shock, especially for children, and removed and regularised the connections, advising affected residents on how to legalise service.

In Faxinal, Paraná, Copel mounted a force‑task to remove decommissioned telecommunications cables from public poles. Operators were notified in advance to coordinate the work, which follows standards set by the national energy and telecom regulators (ANEEL and ANATEL). The cleanup aims to reduce hazards, improve the visual appearance of streets and ensure compliant shared‑use of pole infrastructure.