Eskom: Bedfordview – Eskom successfully connects the first joint of the cable

Eskom has started working on the second joint, after successfully completing the first joint of the damaged cable that caused electricity supply interruptions to the Bedfordview substation. This led to the power outage in the Bedfordview area.

Satisfactory progress on the repair work has been made, despite challenges posed by the rain which caused some delays. Eskom estimates that supply could be restored on Saturday, 4 December 2021. “As much as our focus is on speeding up supply restoration, the safety of our employees is of the utmost importance. No operating condition, or urgency of service will justify exposing anyone to risks arising out of this project or cause them injury or damage to the environment. It was encouraging and heart-warming to get a visit from the new City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) Executive Mayor, Tania Campbell and the Bedfordview Ward 20 Councillor, Jill Humpreys who has become a daily visitor to the site,” says Mashangu Xivambu, Maintenance and Operations Manager in Gauteng.

Gauteng has seen an increase in illegal electricity-related crimes. Although the power utility has made some progress in curbing theft and vandalism of the equipment, the fight against this crime requires more partnership with communities and law enforcement agencies. “We urge communities to report criminal acts to our toll free Eskom crime line 0800 11 27 22. We wish to appeal to those who are conducting these criminal acts to refrain from damaging our infrastructure because of the impact it has on the South African economy and people’s lives especially during this period of the pandemic where more lives are dependent on electricity”, concluded Xivambu.