Kataeb MP Elias Hankache on Monday reiterated utter rejection of the high-voltage power lines project in Mansourieh, adding that the State should install the lines underground as long as there is a 1% chance that this project would pose a health risk to the area's residents.

The lawmaker renewed his stance during a visit to Maronite Bishop Boulos Matar along with a delegation of the Mansourieh residents.

“No one wants to disrupt the government's power plan. Mansourieh residents don't mind the high-voltage power lines project provided that it is done in a way that secures their safety as well as that of their children,'” Hankache said.

Protests have been staged in the Metn area since 2011 to denounce plans for high-voltage power lines which, according to subsequent energy ministers, are needed to tackle the country’s electricity crisis as the project aims to connect a power plant in Mkalles to one in Bsalim.