Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News, 2014-06-05

Residents of Lenasia, South of Johannesburg are outraged after two high voltage electricity pylons collapsed resulting in widespread power outages across the township that will take approximately 4 to 5 days to repair according to ANC local ward councillor for Lenasia, Zarina Motala who spoke to City Power.

“I can confirm and I’ve been on site to see that both pylons on the left hand side in Extension 13 on the K43 collapsed,” said Motala.

Motala said City Power was called to cut the live wires as they were burning the grass where the pylons collapsed.

“Part of it (collapse) was due to the strong winds, but I just confirmed with City Power now… I really can call this an act of sabotage.”

“The foundation where the pylons rest on was tempered with, hence causing both of them to collapse, said Motala.”

According to tweets on City Powers Twitter account (@CityPowerJhb) the theft of the steel that supports the structure leaves the high voltage pylon without proper support causing it to collapse.

Motala said the collapse of the pylons just before 3pm resulted in the entire Orlando substation to trip causing the power outages.

“They are working on it already as we speak. Other areas apart from Lenasia are also affected.”

Areas that are affected by the electricity outages include the entire Lenasia area except Extension 1 & 2, Eldorado Park, Nancefield, Freedom Park and Devland.

Motala warned residents to treat all electricity points as live at all times and asked motorists to take caution as many robots in the area were also affected by the electricity outage.

(Twitter: @Faizie143)