DA in Johannesburg calls for urgent investigation into surge of substation fires
23 June 2023
The DA in Johannesburg demands a proper response from the City government to an unprecedented series of fires at four major electrical substations within a span of just over two weeks. This alarming trend has prompted an urgent call from the DA for a comprehensive investigation.
The fires began at the Brixton substation, followed by incidents at the Ontdekkers substation, the Helderkruin switching station, and most recently, the Wanderers Substation. The recurring nature of these incidents underscores the need for an immediate and thorough examination of the root causes and the implementation of effective preventative measures.
The task of repairing and restoring the damaged electrical infrastructure is significant, especially in light of City Power's recent decision to terminate contracts with a majority of contractors. This move, aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs, has inadvertently raised questions about the city's ability to respond effectively to such emergencies.
The situation is further complicated by the disbandment of the Group Forensics and Investigation Unit (GFIS), the body responsible for investigating such incidents. The absence of this key investigative unit could potentially hinder the process of identifying the culprits behind these fires.
The DA has called for a collaborative effort between City Power Risk Control, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department's Infrastructure Protection Unit, and the newly appointed SAPS Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection, General Shadrack Sibiya. This joint initiative aims to tackle the rising crime syndicates targeting the city's critical infrastructure and to prevent further fires and damage.
The recent spate of substation fires in Johannesburg has underscored the importance of the safety and reliability of the city's electrical infrastructure. The DA has urged all relevant authorities to prioritise this investigation and take swift action to protect the city's critical infrastructure from criminal activities.
Issued Nicole van Dyk, DA Johannesburg Ward Councillor, 23 June 2023
