The connection of 237 households to the electricity grid by City of Cape Town has brought a lot smiles to Pholile B informal settlement in Nomzamo.
Residents had connected electricity illegally for years, but on Saturday 6 July that changed for the better.
The City says in City-supplied areas and on City-owned land, where it is possible to do so, almost all older informal settlements in the metro have been connected to electricity.
Beverley van Reenen, the City’s Mayco member for energy, as well as other dignitaries attended the switch-on which brought a lot of relief to the residents
“It was a special day for the City and Pholile B community. Staff and contractors have been working on this project since 2018 and it is expected to be completed during the current financial year, if all goes according to plan,” said Van Reenen.
“We are especially pleased that this project will immediately improve the living conditions of residents, especially in the winter months. This electrification project will enhance the community’s living conditions as well as the safety of the residents who can now move away from dangerous open flames for lighting and warmth,” she said.
The City thanked the community for their patience while the work continues and said they remain committed to providing electricity services where and whenever possible.
“We encourage residents to look after the infrastructure and report any tampering and illegal connections. Any suspicious activities may be reported to the South African Police Service (Saps) or to the City,” she reminded.
Van Reenen said in the recent months, the City has seen a significant increase in vandalism and damage to its electrical infrastructure in some areas, and attacks on City staff and contractors continue.
A happy Nowanele Gwadu said she could not believe that the day finally came for her to own a metre boxes.
“The issue of electricity is a thorny matter. I am happy we are finally here as it was a struggle for many years to have proper electricity,” she said.
Gwadu said they relied on illegal connections as it was tough to live without electricity, especially during cold winter days.
To report damage to municipal electrical infrastructure:
- SMS: 31220
- Email: power@capetown.gov.za
Anonymous tip-offs welcomed:
Residents can give anonymous tip offs if they are aware of illegal activity that is taking place; that has happened or is still to happen.
- Please call 112 from a cell phone (toll free) and 107 from a landline or 021 480 7700 for emergencies.
