Repeated electrical cable explosions on Bergkaree Avenue have left a resident anxious and frustrated, with the latest blast on October 13 once again plunging parts of the area into darkness.

Steve Darge, who lives opposite the stream near 40 Bergkaree Avenue, said the problem has persisted for more than a year.

“The cable was once buried under the riverbed, but it’s now fully exposed to running water,” he explained. “It’s exploded several times, scattering soil across the road and leaving us without power. The noise is so loud it frightens birds and dogs every time it happens.”

The exposed cable runs under the road near a culvert and carries power through a section that now resembles a small stream. According to Steve, previous repair efforts by City Power contractors have been short-lived, with new sections of cable repeatedly failing at the same spot.

Responding to questions from the Roodepoort Northsider, Johannesburg City Power confirmed that Weltevreden Park is served by some of the city’s oldest electrical infrastructure, with some of it more than 50 years old. The utility attributed the repeated failures to ageing cables, attempted theft, and normal wear and tear.

“City Power is exploring options to replace the entire length of the cable,” said Isaac Mangena, general manager for Public Relations and Communication for City Power.

“However, the cable passes through private property, and permission from the owner is required before major work can be done. If that fails, our Planning Department will have to look at rerouting the line, which may take time due to approvals and budgeting.”

Mangena added that all repairs are inspected by a quality control team before contractors are paid and encouraged residents to report any signs of defects or substandard work to its Security Management Team on 011 490 7900.

Despite these assurances, Darge remains uneasy.

“Someone could get seriously hurt if this happens while a person or car is passing by,” he said. “It’s not just an inconvenience, it’s a danger.”