POLOKWANE – The theft of electrical cables at the Lota substation in Dalmada has resulted in the Dalmada area experiencing power supply challenges, according to Municipal Spokesperson, Thipa Selala.

Selala said in a statement that the incident does not only affect the residential area but also the electrical supply to the municipal water purification plant and Krugersburg reservoirs.

“As a result, water supply to the city area is affected. High lying areas such as Flora Park, Ster Park and Bendor may experience low pressure of water supply while other areas may experience shortages,” the statement reads.

Selala added that some residents and businesses experienced power and water shortages due to incidents of water and electricity infrastructure theft in recent weeks.

“The continued theft of service infrastructure causes millions of Rand worth of damage and repairs. The municipality calls on all residents to help stop the scourge by being vigilant over their service infrastructure and to report any suspicious activities on the infrastructure to the police,” he said.

The Polokwane Municipality is working with law enforcement agencies to follow up on these cases, according to Selala.

“Technicians are currently assessing the site to determine how long it may take to get the system restored. At this point, the estimated time to finish the repairs cannot be provided,” he added.

Selala said feedback will be provided once it is available.