Geluksdal – The electricity cable installation project rolled out in Geluksdal and Geluksdal Extension Three is set to end the constant power outages in the area.
Through the years, residents have been exposed to power outages due to the added pressure on the supply.
Metro spokesperson Themba Gadebe says the new 3km-long high-voltage electricity cable will be buried 1.2m into the ground.
“It will serve as a backup feeder in case of power outages, which are mainly caused by cable theft and illegal connections.
“The project has also come as a relief to 20 community members who were absorbed for temporary employment from a local contractor who has been contracted to install the power cables,” he says.
André Hendriks (44), an unemployed father of four from Geluksdal Ext Three, expressed his gratitude for the prospects of a stable power supply and the job he got from the project.
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“I have been unemployed for years, but through this opportunity my children will have a break, and it might be the beginning of a better tomorrow.
“We, as the community, have also committed to be vigilant and watch out for those who connect electricity illegally, as the damage they cause and the constant outages affect us,” adds Hendricks.
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Tasha Kruger (33) is the owner of a hair salon operating in Geluksdal, she says the hairdressing business is reliant on uninterrupted supply of electricity to prosper.
“The frequent power outages due to cable theft has seen Tasha’s business declining because we are forced to turn away clients.
“What was more painful was the electrical equipment that is damaged when the power tripped.
“I had to budget to buy new ones. There were occasions when the people who assist me were not paid for some days as our work is based on commission and the number of clients attended to at the salon.
“I really hope this project makes a difference in our community,” Kruger said.
