By Akani Nkuna
Power utility Eskom has confirmed that power has been restored in the Kouga, Humansdorp and Sarah Baartman areas after devastating veld fires disrupted electricity and water supply.
In a statement on Friday, Eskom said it had previously overestimated the damage the fires caused to power lines, which contributed to an incorrect initial assessment and the perception that restorations would take longer.
Some areas are still experiencing interruptions, which the utility said it aims to resolve by Saturday.
The fires have left a trail of destruction across farmlands, towns and residential areas despite intensified efforts by firefighters to contain the blazes.
Dry conditions and strong winds have been cited as factors in the rapid spread of the fire across farmlands. The municipality issued a statement on Wednesday, citing deliberate arson as a possible cause, and warning against it.
Kouga Municipality spokesperson Monique Basson, speaking to Inside Metros, corroborated Eskom’s account and said water supply had also been restored to full capacity in affected areas.
“Power has been restored to most parts of Kouga last night. Only Oyster Bay, St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis are still without electricity. Power is expected to be restored by this afternoon,” Basson added.
Eskom said it would provide further updates as the day progresses, as work continues in areas where fires are still being extinguished and infrastructure repairs are ongoing.
INSIDE METROS