Residents stranded after lightning strikes substation

By Masilo Malakwane

TSHIAME – Maluti-a-Phofung local municipality is yet to confirm when it will restore power to Tshiame and surrounding areas which are served by the Greenlands substation.
On Monday, hundreds of residents were left in the dark after a lightning strike that blew up the substation.

According to the municipality’s Electrical Manager, Earl Jordan, the Greenlands substation collapsed due to a fault that occurred about 04:00 am on Monday this week.
“The main transformer has been damaged on the LV side. Every effort is being made to find an alternative solution to get power back to the affected community and businesses.” said Jordan.

The areas that are affected include Tshiame ABCD, Makholokoeng and Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
In a statement issued in the wake of the destruction, the municipality’s media and communications unit said. “This is receiving all the attention it deserves and we will keep you updated on developments. We apologize for the inconvenience caused.”

However, residents have taken to social media platforms to express their frustration as many wait with bated breath for the restoration of power supply.
Madi Zethu wrote on Facebook: “Now it’s also the main transformer that has a problem? Wonders shall never cease. The alternative solution is to bring back the FDC transformer.”

Christina Omphile NaMposula said: “Can We At least Get An Estimated Time When The Power Will Be Restored To Us Cause We Just Bought Food With Our Last Money And We Are Now Perniless. And The Month Just Commenced.” (sic)