New cable promises to stabilise the grid
Residents are cautioned that the project will lead to sidewalks and driveways being excavated
The Ekurhuleni metro’s energy department is in the process of finalising plans to install a 13.5km, 132kV cable from the Morehill substation to the CBD.
According to the metro’s spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, the installation is set to kick off at the end of September, with work set to be completed by April, next year.
In a statement received from Ward 27 Clr Lornette Joseph, the installation will bring much-needed stabilisation to the area’s power grid.
“The new cable will replace the current, oil-filled cable that was installed in 1972 and has suffered severe damage due to continuous load-shedding,” she said.
“This is a mammoth undertaking and we, therefore, urge residents to remain patient, as the result will bring much relief in terms of stable electricity supply.”
Dlamini further cautioned residents that to facilitate the replacement of the cable, workers contracted to the metro will be digging up the sidewalks as well as residential and commercial driveways.
“Contractors have been mandated to immediately backfill all excavated trenches as soon as the new cable has been laid followed by remedying all affected sidewalks and driveways,” he said.
“We do not anticipate that the process will hurt residents or business, however, we advise that to prevent unnecessary damage during the excavation process that any precious or valuable plants, irrigation systems or garden fixtures on the sidewalks be removed.”
Should affected residents have any concerns, questions or complaints relating to the project, they are urged to contact Joseph via her dedicated Service Delivery WhatsApp groups or on 083 847 4510.
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