Metro tightens security on Centurion substations after safety concerns
Community fears grow after several substations were left open near schools and shops, prompting stricter security and daily patrols to curb vandalism and theft.
Stricter measures have been put in place to secure mini-substations in Centurion, following concerns from residents who recently noticed that some were standing open.
The measures include routine inspections, custom-made locks, and police patrols.
Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said the city’s electricity teams inspect the network regularly as part of daily operations, with checks built into weekly and monthly maintenance schedules.
“There is a routine in place whereby maintenance teams inspect the network regularly to ensure that infrastructure is in order and properly locked,” he said.
He said the safety locks used at mini-substations are custom-made specifically for the metro and can only be opened with special keys.
“Tampered and missing locks are replaced immediately whenever these criminal acts occur.”
According to Mashigo, inspections are supported by an electronic operational system that issues notifications indicating that maintenance work is required at specific substations.
He emphasised that councillors often assist by alerting officials when they notice unlocked facilities, ensuring that they are secured quickly.
The metro has recorded a wave of tampering and vandalism in Centurion in recent months.
“During the past three months, about 23 incidents of theft have been recorded, and 41 vandalism incidents have been recorded during this period,” added Mashigo.
He explained that in addition to the electricity department’s maintenance work, the TMPD carries out daily patrols at mini-substations.
“The TMPD has increased patrols in cable theft hotspots, and the city is encouraging community members to report any theft and vandalism to the TMPD and SAPS to assist in curbing these criminal acts.”
Mashigo noted that the city is also working with various communities and businesses to help protect infrastructure and continues to explore advanced security measures, including stronger locks and other preventative tools.
Residents who come across unsecured facilities are urged to report them directly to ward councillors or through the city’s customer care line at 012 358 9999.
Despite these measures, residents remain concerned about safety.
Alet Booysen said she was shocked when she spotted a mini-substation left open next to a crèche opposite Lyttelton Primary School last week.
“It was shocking to see such a dangerous situation so close to where small children are cared for,” she said.
Booysen added that leaving a substation exposed in an area where children and parents walk every day posed an obvious risk.
It made her question whether officials are doing enough to prevent these dangers.
Another resident, Susan Barnard, said she was alarmed when she found a similar case opposite KwikSPAR Kloofsig.
“It’s extremely unsafe, and anyone can get hurt badly,” she said.
Barnard noted that open substations not only put residents in danger but also increase the likelihood of vandalism and theft.
She added that although the metro returned to secure the facility properly, she believes stronger preventative measures are urgently needed.
“It’s good that it was locked again, but these situations should never happen in the first place,” she said.
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