Illegal connections behind Elandsfontein’s power woes, says Ekurhuleni
City blames cable fault for two-week power outage.
Following the two-week power outage in Elandsfontein, the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) has attributed the outage to a cable fault due to overloading.
The power was temporarily restored on May 20, with a full restoration estimated for May 23.
When asked whether compensation or rebates would be offered to residents and businesses affected by the extended outage, the city’s spokesperson said the city has a division that deals with insurance claims. Residents can file claims there, and each case will be treated on its merits.
GCN asked what steps will be taken to ensure the electrical infrastructure in Elandsfontein is reliable and maintained to prevent future outages.
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In response, Dlamini said that if the overloading can stop then such problems would not occur, adding that a widespread of illegal connections in Elandsfontein emanates from Mabondeni.
“We need to remove over headline cables and replace them with underground cables as and when the budget allows, to avoid some of the challenges.
“The city uses minisubs, and pillar boxes are made from reinforced material to protect vulnerable parts of the electricity network. Companies that are illegally connected to the grid will be fined based on approved tariffs.”
When asked what community engagement initiatives the city is undertaking to educate residents about the dangers and consequences of illegal connections, Dlamini said the problem in this instance is the informal settlement.
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“Co-ordinated initiatives including all affected departments have been co-ordinated by the customer service department. These are ongoing.
“Some equipment is more prone to vandalism, and it has been protected depending on the available budget. Illegal connection operations are also done on an ongoing basis,” said Dlamini.
