Key Takeaways:
- The major power outage in Nelson Mandela Bay is expected to last for 10 days
- The outage was caused by the collapse of two electricity transmission towers due to infrastructure vandalism and adverse weather conditions
- Hundreds of residents are without water across large parts of the metro
- Technical teams are working to restore the power supply as quickly and safely as possible
- Water tankers are roaming across the metro to provide water to affected areas
- Residents are coming together to assist each other, with offers of help ranging from storage of food to charging devices
Introduction to the Power Outage
The timeline for the major power outage affecting Nelson Mandela Bay has been revised to 10 days after an oversight visit on Saturday. Mayor Babalwa Lobishe, accompanied by several high-ranking municipal officials, conducted an oversight visit to the Bethelsdorp–Greenbushes 132kV electricity transmission towers. The power outage, caused by the collapse of two towers due to infrastructure vandalism and adverse weather conditions, has left hundreds of residents without water across large parts of Nelson Mandela Bay. The municipality has assured residents that technical teams are working to restore the power supply as quickly and safely as possible.
Assessment and Repair Efforts
Technical teams are currently working to remove tension on the tower, a critical step that will enable the planting of new poles. The leadership expressed encouragement at the progress made thus far and commended the teams for the work currently underway. The municipality also confirmed that Eskom joined the repair team, and together with municipal officials, external contractors, and all role players on site, there is confidence that a collaborative and effective solution will be achieved as efficiently as possible. The repair efforts are ongoing, and the municipality is working to ensure that the power supply is restored as soon as possible.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
The power outage has had a significant impact on residents and businesses across the metro. Hundreds of residents are without water, and dozens of businesses and healthcare facilities have been forced to plan, pray, and pull together. Social media has been flooded with requests and offers by residents to assist with everything from storage of food to charging devices. For example, Bester EMS posted online that they would be able to assist with refilling oxygen cylinders for those in need. The Huis Louisa Meyburgh Old Age Home in Kabega Park has also put out a plea for assistance, particularly in need of water and a generator.
Municipal Response and Support
The municipality has also said that the ongoing water and electricity outages have led to municipal swimming pools running out of water and having to be temporarily closed. Westering Pool, Riviera Pool, Varsvlei Pool, and Zwide Pool have all been closed. Water trucks are also roaming across the metro, and residents can contact their ward councillors for locations. The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality understands the inconvenience this has caused residents and communities and is working to restore the supply as quickly and safely as possible. The municipality will share further updates as work progresses.
Community Support and Assistance
Despite the challenges, residents are coming together to assist each other. Social media has been filled with offers of help, ranging from storage of food to charging devices. The community is showing remarkable resilience and solidarity in the face of this crisis. The municipality is also working to support affected residents, with water tankers roaming across the metro to provide water to those in need. The areas being serviced by the water tankers include Glenhaven, Mount Pleasant, Linton Grange, Jacksonville, Rosedale, Langa phase 5, Kwanobuhle, and others.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the major power outage in Nelson Mandela Bay is a significant challenge, but the municipality and residents are working together to restore the power supply and support those affected. The revised timeline of 10 days is a realistic estimate, and the municipality is working to ensure that the repair efforts are completed as efficiently as possible. Residents are advised to stay informed and to contact their ward councillors for updates and assistance. The community’s resilience and solidarity in the face of this crisis are a testament to the strength and spirit of Nelson Mandela Bay.
