Contractors hired to restore power in Pretoria North intimidated
The local CPF, Cobra Tact Ops and Maximum security have volunteered to escort the contractors while they carry out their work of restoring power.
Despite the best efforts of private contractors hired to address power outages in Pretoria North, alleged intimidation by striking municipal workers continues to hamper efforts to restore supply to the area.
The ongoing municipal worker’s strike was affecting non-striking city personnel attending to problems and private contractors were put in place as a relief measure.
However, the strike action has hampered the contractors’ ability to carry out their work and caused further disruptions to the already unstable power supply in some parts.
Various parts of Pretoria North have struggled with power outages for over nine days.
Florauna, Wolmer and Dorandia are still without power, while other parts were restored at the weekend.
This has caused frustration and resentment among residents, demanding that the city take more decisive action to restore electricity and resolve the crisis.
In response to the ongoing threats and intimidation of the private contractors hired to address the power outages in Pretoria North, ward councillor Yolanda Duvenage said that security measures are being put in place to protect these workers.
“The local CPF, Cobra Tact Ops and Maximum security have volunteered to escort the contractors while they carry out their work.”
Duvenage said these teams are ensuring the safety of contractors so that smooth delivery of services can take place.
“These teams are also providing support and assistance to the ongoing efforts to restore electricity supply to the area,” she said.
Duvenage said that while contractors are present, some faults require specialists to repair.
“We checked all the minisubs on the line and were unable to locate the fault, so additional investigation is required,” Duvenage said.
The Tshwane switching teams are essential in this regard, according to Duvenage.
“Because the minisubs have been examined, this indicates that there may be a problem with the city’s main subs, which contractors are not authorised to access,” she stated.
She said work will continue until all areas are restored.
“We are making progress and power should be restored by tonight, to most parts.”
She thanked the CPF and private security companies for protecting the contractors.
“Your selfless service to the community is noted with high admiration,” she said.
By the time of going to press the metro had yet to comment.
More dismissal letters on the cards for illegal striking workers
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