Scheduled 9-hour power outage in eThekwini on Friday

eThekwini residents should brace for a planned power outage on Friday, 11 October, from 8:00 until around 17:00. This interruption will allow eThekwini Electricity to carry out essential maintenance at the Parkhill Substation, specifically to repair the medium-voltage bus bar bushing. For safety reasons, the electricity supply in the surrounding areas must be cut during the repairs.

Areas affected by the power outage include Athlone Park, Broadway, Durban North, Virginia, Avoca, Parkhill, Parkhill Industrial, Prospect Hall, Redhill, Redhill Industrial, Riverhorse Valley, and Riverhorse Valley West. Residents not impacted by 8:30 can assume they will not be affected. The municipality advises all residents to treat electrical installations live during this time for safety.

Eskom welcomes arrests for electricity theft

In a separate development, Eskom has expressed satisfaction over the arrest of four contractor employees accused of facilitating electricity theft. The suspects allegedly accepted R10 000 from a resort owner to bypass an electricity meter, enabling the unlawful consumption of power without payment. Eskom highlighted that such criminal actions worsen its financial challenges.

“These actions not only constitute a serious criminal offence but also place a financial strain on Eskom,” the utility stated.

“We strongly condemn such illegal activities as they violate the law and undermine efforts to provide reliable and sustainable electricity.”

The scheme came to light when a concerned citizen reported the illegal activity. Eskom praised the quick response, saying, “Eskom commends the member of the public who reported the incident, our internal security team for their thorough investigation, and the South African Police Service for their swift action in arresting the suspects.”

Combatting Meter Tampering and Illegal Connections

Eskom reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on electricity theft, warning that tampering with meters is a punishable offence.

“Anyone found guilty may face prosecution, fines, or imprisonment.,” Eskom emphasised. The utility encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity, stressing that community cooperation is essential in tackling illegal connections.