Docrra seeks legal help in search for Dukuza substation tender details

Questions are being asked over the unexplained R9.1-million increase in the cost of a multi-million-rand substation in the Dolphin Coast.

The Dukuza substation is currently being built next to the P445 opposite Shaka’s Head informal settlement. The substation is KwaDukuza Municipality’s (KDM) largest capital project which was initially budgeted at R49.6-million, but the cost has since ballooned to R58.7-million.

The Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (Docrra) has instructed its attorneys to force KDM to release full details of the Dukuza substation tender. Attorney Maike Gohl of HBGSchindlers confirmed that her firm is assisting Docrra in filing an appeal under the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA).

“Should no response be forthcoming, the next step is to lodge a formal complaint with the Information Regulator for an investigation into KDM’s refusal to provide the requested information,” said Gohl.

Docrra chairperson Deon Viljoen said the public has a right to know whether proper procurement and competitive pricing standards were followed.

“We simply want to ensure that best practice was applied, and this can only be verified through access to the tender contract information held by KDM,” he said.

The project is being rolled out in two phases. The first phase includes the refurbishment of Eskom’s 132 kV lines, construction of the main substation and control buildings, and installation of security systems. It is fully funded through the National Treasury’s Neighbourhood Development Partnership Grant.

Phase 2, still unfunded, will construct the 33/11 kV substation and medium-voltage lines to supply Ballito, Zimbali, Shakasrock, the Business Park, and surrounding areas.

The substation is critical to delivering an 80 MVA firm supply, easing strain on intake points at Driefontein and Shakaskraal. It underpins development in Ballito Hills, Mystic River, Mount Richmore, Tinley Manor, Imbonini, and Braeside Industrial Park, where residential, commercial, and industrial growth is underway.

KDM had not responded to a request for comment at time of publication.

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