…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
Five Eskom pylons collapsed in Hammanskraal, Tshwane on April 10, along the R101 road.
Fortunately, electricity supply to customers was not affected.
However, the incident highlights the ongoing problem of theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure.
Eskom Condemns Theft and Vandalism
Eskom has condemned the theft and vandalism of its infrastructure and is concerned that this criminal practice is spreading across Gauteng.
The power utility plans to rebuild the Hammanskraal infrastructure as the integrity of the towers was damaged beyond repair.
Similar Incident Occurs in Tshwane
This incident comes on the heels of seven pylons collapsing in the City of Tshwane on Sunday night along the N4 highway.
Eskom’s Maintenance and Operations Senior Manager in Gauteng, Mashangu Xivambu, expressed his concern over the situation, saying it is disturbing that this incident happened shortly after a similar one in the City of Tshwane.
Commentary:
The collapse of five Eskom pylons in Hammanskraal is a worrying development, especially as it follows a similar incident in the City of Tshwane.
The theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure is a problem that has been ongoing for some time, and it is concerning that it is spreading across Gauteng.
Eskom has condemned the practice, and the power utility plans to rebuild the Hammanskraal infrastructure, but this is an expensive process that takes time.
The collapse of pylons not only affects electricity supply but also poses a danger to the public.
The ongoing theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure is a serious issue that requires urgent attention.
It not only affects electricity supply but also poses a danger to the public.
The authorities must take action to address this problem to ensure that the power supply is not disrupted and that people are kept safe.