Load shedding: the effect on their lives

POLOKWANE – ALL parts of the city have been experiencing load shedding recently, and Express asked Polokwane residents how this affected their daily lives.

Willy Ramusi said not having electricity disrupted his school work, as they used computers at school.

“When we don’t have electricity, we just sit and do nothing, hoping that it will be turned back on and lectures will resume.”

He said they sometimes had no choice but to go home without having lessons and he was afraid they would fall behind.

Julius Mohlopi said life was boring without electricity, especially when he was at home.

“I love watching TV and playing com-puter games for entertainment. When there is no electricity, I have nothing to do.”

Tshegofatso Sekhitla said sitting in the dark could be dangerous, as criminals could use this opportunity to break into homes. “Although we can use candles, they are not safe, because people often forget to blow them out and end up burning down the house.”

He said without electricity, food in the refrigerators got spoilt and replacing them was another expense.

Shingly Mongwe said load shedding in the city could cause traffic congestion.

“Motorists become reckless and pay little attention when traffic lights don’t work. This causes accidents.”

Richard Ndlovu said he was worried about small business owners, who could not work without any electricity.

“People who own salons and internet cafés have to close their shops when there is load shedding because they don’t have generators. Not everyone can afford other sources of energy such as generators or a solar power system.”

Desiree Nkoana said as a student with a limited budget, she could not afford to buy takeaways when there is no electricity.

“I usually buy groceries that will last the whole month and I cook every day. When there is load shedding, I have to spend more money on takeaway food.”