This is according to DA spokesperson on Roads, Graham Gersbach MPL.
The MEC allegedly stated that his department only became aware of the problem in 2013; however, DA Ward 23 Clr Andre du Plessis, says he has been dealing with the issue for years.
“In 2013 the MEC said that repairs were done to the light but then vandalism and theft took place immediately afterwards. Residents and the ward councillor, however, have no proof of that short-term repair,” says Gersbach.
He adds that cable theft and vandalism of mini substations and transformers in the area have been cited as the problem for the outages.
“Whilst cable theft is a massive problem in Gauteng, this is becoming a standard response for problems which are much more complex than the department cares to admit.”
According to Gersbach, the truth of the matter is that the department does not have adequate supplies to update and repair the lights on Atlas Road.
“It is for the same reason why repairs to lights along the R24 Albertina Sisulu Highway have still not been completed.
“The department needs to put preventative measures in place to safeguard its assets and ensure that it delivers on its mandate.
“It also needs to keep stock of components so that extensive delays do not put motorists at risk.”
The DA will be requesting that his department liaise with the Department of Community Safety to formulate a strategy to safeguard its assets, and also question why critical components are not on hand to ensure the proper functioning of streetlights and high-rise masts.
The Advertiser contacted the metro with this regard. By the time of publication no comment was received. – @IschkeBoksburg
