Transformer is set alight by protesters, causes power trip at Allandale substation and costs R10 million

The damage that was caused after transformers were set on fire at Eskom leading to a power trip at Allandale substation on 23 October has cost R10 million to fix, Midrand Reporter reports.

This follows after a group of residents of Kanana section in Rabie Ridge were protesting against illegal electricity cuts in the area.

“We received information that residents had set alight Eskom transformers next to the Limpopo complex. No arrest has been made yet and investigations are continuing,” said spokesperson for Rabie Ridge Police Station Captain Mofana Masela.

As a result, four areas including Rabie Ridge, Mayibuye, Phomolong, Commercia and Austin View were affected by a power outage which lasted until 25 October.

City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena said that new transformers, cables and insulators were replaced to the tune of R10 million.

“The damage that was caused has been fixed and power has been restored. It is unfortunate that the act has cost taxpayers such a huge amount of money,” he said.