Archive of News

City Power warns that illegal mining could (literally) collapse West Rand electricity infrastructure

During a media tour to the Roodepoort and the Robertsville substations on Thursday, City Power engineers warned that if underground mining continued, the infrastructure would collapse, leaving close to 10 areas without electricity and possibly damaging buildings. At the Roodepoort substation, a 15m-long concrete pylon that connects to other pylons along a 10km route, is at risk of collapsing. Right next to the pylon are various shafts from which two groups of illegal miners were seen resurfacing carrying plastic bags.

City Power said if the illegal mining activity persisted, there would be disaster in the area. At the Robertsville substation, various sinkholes have emerged with parts of the substation building showing signs of drifting and cracks. One of the receiving gantries at that substation is also likely to collapse should mining continue. Engineer Hilda Nonkonyana said City Power was looking to acquire new secure sites where they could build substations without the risk of being influenced by the zama-zamas.

In the meantime, they would try to fill in areas that were caving in an attempt to stabilise the infrastructure. Johannesburg MMC for environment and infrastructure services Jack Sekwaila said geologists would be making an assessment about the risk of nearby houses and businesses caving in.

Source: SA Labour News
To read the full report click here.