Non-functional traffic lights and power outages a headache to resident
We sometimes go without power for hours and then it happens at least once or twice a week. ”
I don’t know who to go to anymore regarding non-working traffic lights and power outages in the Alberton area.
The traffic light at the intersection of Swartkoppies Road and Phantom Street near the Lemon Tree Mall has been out of order since July 10.
This is a very dangerous crossing and there are no pointsmen or traffic officers to regulate traffic. If you drive around the area you will come across more intersections with non-working traffic lights.
This one is not the only problem.
Another problem is the power outages in Raceview. We sometimes go without power for hours and then it happens at least once or twice a week. Our appliances and food are getting messed up with the outages and we need someone to attend to the situations.
Frustrated resident
The RECORD received the following comment from EMM spokesperson Themba Gadebe:
“The roads and stormwater department is responsible for the maintenance of the traffic signals in the City of Ekurhuleni.
“Complaints on non-functioning traffic signals can be reported in the following ways: My COE cellphone application, through the call centre (0860 543 000), contacting ward councillors and through the customer care area manager.
“The turnaround time of less than 24 hours is normally maintained, but due to the backlog that developed during lockdown the turnaround time is a bit slower. The turnaround time is improving as the backlog is being dealt with,” said Gadebe.
“This turnaround time excludes situations where the power supply to the traffic signal installations are affected, in which case this department is reliant on the energy department for assistance. The roads and stormwater department has a close relationship with the Department of Energy and as a team every step is taken, within legal limits, to get the traffic signals all working as they should.”
According to Gadebe, the recent outages affecting the area were due to two incidents of 6.6kV cable damage by third-party contractors and two attempts of theft of the 33kV feeder cables.
“Our security service provider, as well as the EMP Anti-cable Theft Unit, are aware of recent theft attempts and patrols in the area will increase.”
