A man was severely injured in Nhlwathi on Saturday when he stepped over a live electrical wire lying on the wet ground, reportedly damaged during recent storms.

Jimmy Msimang, an uMkhanyakude District Municipality employee, was electrocuted while on duty at Matshemhlophe Water Supply Scheme.

ALSO READ: Widespread power outages affect northern KZN

He was rushed to hospital for treatment and is receiving medical attention.

uMkhanyakude District Mayor Siphile Mdaka has since commissioned Eskom to deactivate live power lines in areas where the public is at risk.

“We are putting pressure on Eskom to restore power in Mtubatuba and Hluhluwe areas affected by last week’s storm.

“We sympathise with these communities; however, our hands are tied as we don’t have authority over Eskom operations except putting pressure on them to restore the service,” said Mdaka.

Residents are advised to report any downed power lines or damaged infrastructure to Eskom immediately on 08600 37566 (emergency line) or 08600 37566 (WhatsApp Alfred chatbot).

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