- Eskom has made the tough call to switch off a frequently vandalised mini-substation in Makhaza, Khayelitsha.
- The electricity provider on Thursday (26 October) said it had to weigh all the options and took the difficult but correct decision.
- The mini-substation has been repaired three times already, even though a security cage was installed to protect the network equipment.
The residents of 37 Section in Makhaza, Khayelitsha are facing the prospect of electricity outages as Eskom has made the tough call to switch a frequently vandalised mini-substation in the area off.
This move comes in light of repeated instances of illegal connections and relentless vandalism, which has raised alarming safety concerns for the surrounding community.
The electricity provider on Thursday (26 October) said it had to weigh all the options and took the difficult but correct decision to ensure the equipment does not become a safety hazard to the community.
“The mini-substation has been repaired three times already, even though a security cage was installed to protect the network equipment,” Eskom said in a statement. “Unfortunately, the relentless theft and vandalism of Eskom infrastructure in the area persist and are costing Eskom millions to repair and replace.”
Mbulelo Yedwa, Eskom General Manager of the Cape Coastal Cluster, said: “Successfully combating theft and vandalism requires a partnership between Eskom and the community to protect our electricity infrastructure. Vandalising Eskom infrastructure leads to prolonged unplanned outages for our communities and paying customers.”
He said it sadly is the legal paying customers who suffer when criminals steal and vandalise. “We need the community to take a stand against electricity-related crimes so we can bring the perpetrators to justice,” Yedwa added.
Members of the public can report incidents by contacting the Eskom Toll-Free Crime Hotline 0800 11 27 22 or the local police. Callers may remain anonymous.