Local businesses crippled by cable theft and illegal connections
“These businesses have been long-standing contributors to the area, paying their dues on time".
Ward 36 Clr Wendy Morgan raised the alarm over a surge in cable theft and illegal electrical connections, which are causing significant disruptions for local businesses.
Primrose Road, a hub for commerce, has been without power for nearly two weeks, leading to substantial losses for companies.
“This issue demands urgent attention. Illegal connections are crippling businesses, leaving them without power and resulting in severe operational disruptions and revenue losses,” said Morgan.
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Lucy Martin, a local business owner, highlighted the dire impact.
“Cable theft has immediate and severe consequences. We can’t conduct daily operations, leading to lost income, unhappy customers, and immense frustration.
“The cold winter conditions exacerbate the situation, making work conditions unbearable,” Martin said.
Martin called for police intervention, stressing the inability of businesses to afford generators and manage orders manually without power.
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“This situation is unsustainable. We need the city to take action and ensure our businesses can operate smoothly,” she added.
Morgan emphasised the broader implications of the crisis.
“These businesses have been long-standing contributors to the area, paying their dues on time. Their inability to function affects their revenue and the city’s economy,” she said.
Morgan has reported the issue but has yet to receive a response from the electricity department.
“There is an urgent need for the city to protect its power infrastructure. The lack of preventive measures and enforcement leave businesses vulnerable to repeated incidents,” Morgan said.
She noted suspicious activities on Primrose Road, where cables have been covered with tar, possibly indicating illegal connections.
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Businesses are calling for increased security measures, including surveillance and enhanced protection in areas prone to cable theft.
“The impact on local businesses is severe, and immediate action is needed.
“The City must act to prevent businesses from relocating, which would negatively impact the community and local employment,” Morgan said.
