Eskom restores power in Kouga as veld fires burn

 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,