Local councilors in Soshanguve Block X urgently appeal to the community to halt illegal electricity connections that are causing disruptions to the power supply in the area. The escalating problem of unauthorized tapping into the electricity grid has strained the system, resulting in unpredictable power outages and inconvenience for residents.
Illegal connections have become a widespread issue in Soshanguve, with residents resorting to unlawful methods to secure electricity for their homes. However, this practice has proven detrimental not only to the power supply but also to the safety and well-being of the community.
In response to the need to address this issue and ease the suffering caused by frequent blackouts, local councilors have launched an awareness campaign to educate residents about the dangers and consequences of illegal electricity connections. These unauthorized connections overload the system, leading to infrastructure damage and compromising the reliability of electricity supply to both legal and illegal connections in the same area.
Councilor Themba Masinya emphasizes the urgent need for the community to reconsider reliance on illegal electricity connections, stating, “We understand the challenges faced by our residents, but resorting to illegal means is not the solution. It exacerbates the problem for everyone and puts lives at risk. We implore each person in Soshanguve to refrain from illegal connections for the sake of our well-being and the sustainability of our power supply.”
Besides straining the power grid and potential infrastructure damage, illegal connections pose significant safety hazards. Typically done by unqualified individuals, these connections often lack necessary safety features, increasing the risk of electrical fires, electrocution, and accidents leading to loss of life or property.
The local council also highlights the financial burden that illegal connections place on the community. Masinya states, “Costs associated with repairing damaged infrastructure, addressing safety concerns, and investigating illegal connections add unnecessary strain on already limited resources. The community is encouraged to report any incidents of illegal connections to the authorities and to support efforts to eradicate this practice.”
Efforts are underway to improve access to legal electricity connections in Soshanguve by collaborating with power supply authorities and exploring alternative solutions. Councilors are working closely with stakeholders to expedite the process of legalizing connections and ensuring that resources are efficiently allocated to meet the growing demand for electricity in the area.
The plea by local councilors is a call for unity and responsible citizenship. By refraining from illegal connections, the community can actively contribute to the improvement of power supply, the safety of residents, and the overall development and prosperity of Soshanguve.