A project to improve the safety of electricity distribution boxes has been delayed after tender prices exceeded the municipality’s budget, according to AbaQulusi Local Municipality‘s response to a residents’ petition.

Tender prices exceed available budget

Plans to make hundreds of electricity distribution boxes safer have been delayed after tender prices came in far above the municipality’s budget.

According to the AbaQulusi Local Municipality, it advertised for the supply and installation of fibreglass lids on at least 200 electricity distribution boxes following concerns about exposed electrical infrastructure.

The municipality had budgeted R1.5 million for the project. However, tender submissions were approximately R13 million, making the project unaffordable.

Project remains a priority

The municipality said the work has now been included in the next financial year’s Electricity Infrastructure Maintenance Budget.

It described the installation of fibreglass lids as an important public safety measure that will reduce the risk of accidental contact with live electrical equipment, help prevent electrocution and improve compliance with safety standards.

The municipality said the project remains a priority despite the financial setback.

Editor’s note

This article is based on a formal written response issued by the AbaQulusi Local Municipality to a petition submitted by residents and business owners. The municipality’s statements have been reported as contained in the response.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.