The dark side of Roosevelt Park substation’s upgrades

The way in which the Roosevelt Park substation’s R110-million upgrade is being handled has sparked outrage among the residents it services.

While residents understand the upgrades are necessary, they are unhappy about what they call a lack of communication regarding power outages from the area’s councillors as well as City Power.

According to Clive Maher, an affected resident, areas serviced by the substation were without power on 27 June from about 8am without notice and was only restored to most areas by 11.15pm.

“When the electricity came back on, it tripped about six or seven times before it was stable. About three or four of my clients called to say their appliances have gone as a result,” Maher said.

He said the power was out again early morning on 29 June without notice and was restored at about 10.30am.

Maher said at the last peaceful protest held at the substation, Johannesburg Mayor, Herman Mashaba had said once the upgrades started to affect residents, the City would communicate it to the community.

“There has been no communication. This is what’s frustrating,” Maher said.

At the time of going to print, the Northcliff Melville Times had unsuccessfully attempted to contact City Power for comment regarding the matter.

However, the electricity provider had stated on Twitter on 28 June that they were aware of the outages but gave no cause. Another Twitter post on 29 June said the outage on that day was due to unpredictable cable theft.

The substation has been known for its problems in the past, including regular outages and fires.

Also read: Substation upgrade meeting to be held

Substation’s R110 million upgrade underway