Update on electricity infrastructure incident and stabilisation measures.
Published: March 20, 2026<< BACK TO NEWS
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The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality acknowledges the profound impact that the recent transmission pylon collapse on the Chelsea–Arlington–Walmer–Summerstrand line has had on residents and businesses. We understand the disruption, frustration and uncertainty this has caused, and we extend our sincere appreciation for the patience, resilience and cooperation shown by the community during this challenging time.
Contractors have commenced with site establishment, and essential equipment, materials, monopoles and graders are being mobilized to the affected area. This marks a critical step forward in the restoration process. Work has begun with the careful stripping of the line, followed by the dismantling of the damaged pylons. These activities will allow for excavation works to proceed, laying the foundation for the installation of new monopoles.
The full restoration of electricity supply is expected to take approximately 21 days. This timeline reflects the scale and technical complexity of the work required to safely rebuild and stabilize the network. The process includes the demolition of nine damaged towers, installation of twelve new monopoles, excavation of sixty engineered foundation holes, bush clearing, site preparation, and the transportation of heavy materials. Once these phases are complete, approximately six kilometers of conductor will be installed to reconnect the line.
While we recognize that this extended timeframe is difficult for affected communities, it is important to emphasize that the work being undertaken is a permanent solution to infrastructure that was already in a critical condition. Additional contractor teams will be brought in to help expedite progress wherever possible. The Municipality also wishes to clarify that Eskom is not involved in the restoration process, as this infrastructure falls under municipal responsibility.
Every step of the restoration is being taken in strict accordance with safety and engineering standards. While we are doing everything possible to accelerate progress, we cannot compromise on the safety of workers or the long-term reliability of the network. In the interim, the Municipality is actively exploring relief measures to support affected residents and businesses.
It is also important to note that the affected infrastructure had already been identified for refurbishment under the Municipality’s phased upgrade programme. A tender for these upgrades is currently at an advanced stage of evaluation, reaffirming our ongoing commitment to strengthening and maintaining a resilient electricity network.
To better manage the constrained supply during this period, the load rotation schedule has been adjusted. Affected areas will now receive electricity for 2 hours, followed by 6 hours without supply. We understand the strain this places on households and businesses and urge residents to plan accordingly where possible.
The Municipality remains committed to transparent and regular communication as work progresses. We once again thank all residents and businesses for their understanding, patience and cooperation as we work diligently to restore power safely, reliably and as quickly as possible.
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