The Nelson Mandela Bay metro has not allocated budget for repairing rusted electricity pylons despite warnings that they have exceeded their design life. This inaction raises fears of another blackout that could severely impact the local economy. Political figures are urging immediate action to prevent further disruptions.
In Nelson Mandela Bay, concerns mount over the deteriorating state of key electricity infrastructure. An internal report has warned that the Bushy Park 132kV pylons have reached the end of their design life, yet the metro has failed to include funding for their repair or replacement in its adjustment budget. This comes after two previous collapses: one in August 2024, when four towers on the Chelsea-Arlington-Summerstrand line fell, leaving Summerstrand and surrounding areas without power for nearly two weeks; and another in January, which affected half the city.
DA MPL and mayoral candidate Retief Odendaal addressed a letter to Mayor Babalwa Lobishe and acting city manager Lonwabo Ngoqo on 5 March, demanding urgent funding. In the letter, Odendaal stated: “I note with concern the fact that you have not made funding available in your adjustment budget to replace and/or refurbish the rusted pylons on the aforementioned line.” He added that the metro already possesses documentation confirming the pylons' compromised state.
The report, tabled in November 2024 by former acting head of the electricity and energy directorate Tholi Biyela, highlighted vandalism exacerbating the issue: “The Bloemendal-Greenbushes Industrial and the Chatty-Rowallan Park 132kV overhead lines are being vandalised at present, and further works are needed to be done to stabilise the network.” Odendaal warned that delays could expose the city to risks and damages claims, noting the relatively small cost of replacement compared to potential economic losses.
Municipal spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya responded that the towers are under technical assessment, and interventions will follow established processes under the Municipal Finance Management Act. He cautioned against commentary suggesting neglect: “The municipality therefore cautions against public commentary that may create the impression that the city is either unaware of the matter or failing to prioritise it, as per its mandate.”
Odendaal reported receiving an acknowledgement from Lobishe's office but no response from Ngoqo. He emphasized the impact on businesses, where previous outages led to massive losses and insurance complications. Freedom Front Plus councillor Bill Harington criticized the lack of prioritization, stating: “Electricity transmission infrastructure is not optional infrastructure, it is essential for the functioning of the city.” He pointed to risks for small businesses, residents, and investor confidence.