Newcastle should prepare to be left in the dark.
The implementation of a maintenance plan by Newcastle Municipality, will see scheduled power cuts during March, April and May this year.
This, a municipal release stated, was to trip test the medium voltage network.
“As part of the maintenance plan of the municipality, we are trying to prevent danger to the lives of our people, prevent damage to the infrastructure, equipment and the environment by conducting trip testing,” the release explained.
The process of trip testing allows the Electrical and Mechanical Department to investigate any problems arising from the switch gear, before breakdowns and major outages occur.
“This is a step which is boldly taken by the department, as to prevent damage to our equipment and curb outages.”
Proposed outages will reportedly take place after business hours, and will not persist for longer than an hour at a time.
The municipality said it was difficult to identify which homes or businesses would be affected on which day, but released a schedule outline of times residents would most likely be affected.
“Please treat all electrical apparatus as live at all times.”
The affected areas and scheduled dates and times are as follows:
- Riverside Substation, Industrial Area and KwaMathukuza – March 8 to March 10.
- Central A Substation and CBD – March 15 to March 17, and March 22 to March 24.
- Townland Substation, Ncandu Park, Pioneer Park, Signal Hill, Amajuba Park and Sunny Ridge – March 29 to March 31.
- Glen Substation, Amiel Park, Hutten Heights, Schuinshoogte and Aviary Hill – April 5 to April 7.
- Central B Substation, Arbor Park, Central Park, Voortrekker Street area, Provincial Hospital, Mediclinic Newcastle, Newcastle Mall, Newcastle SAPS, Newcastle Airport, Jooste Road – April 12 to April 14, and April 19 to April 21.
- Lennoxton Substation, Lennoxton, Paradise, Fernwood, Suryaville and Fairleigh – May 3 to May 5.
What are your views about this story?
Tell us by posting on our Facebook timeline, Newcastle Advertiser or tweet us at @nnadv.
Add us on BBM for the latest news in your community. PIN: 2B6C7269, or join our news service on WhatsApp.
(Please note: Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Newcastle Advertiser)
