Today (Wednesday), a ceremony was held to inaugurate the underground power line project in the city of Ofakim. The initiative aims to upgrade the city’s electrical infrastructure, reinforcing a city that became a symbol of heroism during the October 7 massacre. The Israel Electric Corporation is investing over 10 million shekels in the project.
Restoring Rachel Edri’s Neighborhood
The joint initiative seeks to improve Ofakim’s power grid, reduce electricity supply interruptions, and enhance energy efficiency in the neighborhood, which suffered severe damage during the attack. The project will span approximately one kilometer and is being carried out in collaboration with the Ofakim municipality. Moving power lines underground rather than keeping them above ground will also improve the city’s appearance, especially in the central neighborhood where one of the war’s symbols of bravery—Rachel Edri—lives.
Rachel Edri and her husband were held hostage in their home by Hamas terrorists from the notorious Nukhba unit during the attack on Ofakim. In an extraordinary display of resourcefulness, Edri offered the terrorists coffee and cookies, managing to keep them from killing her and her husband for 15 hours until security forces arrived and rescued them.
“After a Difficult Period, We are Witnessing the City’s Renewal”
At the ceremony, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Eli Cohen stated: “Burying power lines underground in Ofakim is a critical project following a very difficult period. With the damage the city endured in October 2023, we are now witnessing a process of recovery and strengthening. This initiative will not only enhance the reliability of the power system but will also improve the city’s streetscape and encourage new development projects. All of this contributes to strengthening the city and improving the quality of life for its residents.”
Ensuring Energy Security for the City
Meir Spiegler, CEO of the Israel Electric Corporation, emphasized the company’s commitment to ensuring a stable power supply for the city: “This project is an integral part of Ofakim’s renewal after the devastating events of October. The Israel Electric Corporation will always do whatever is necessary to provide continuous and reliable electricity for Ofakim. We are committed to maintaining the city’s energy security and will continue investing in infrastructure expansion to support future development projects.”
Mayor of Ofakim Itzik Danino added: “The underground power line project in the Mishor HaGefen neighborhood is another important step in the city’s urban renewal. After experiencing the horrors of October 7, Ofakim is now undergoing a significant process of restoration and transformation.”
