Proposals by the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) for smart, long-term solutions to secure infrastructure in the Ekurhuleni Metro are falling on deaf ears.
At present, the Metro’s Energy Department is trying to secure power infrastructure by welding shut the gates, roofs and doors of mini-substations in a desperate bid to prevent cable theft and vandalism. These efforts are, however, ineffective and mini-substations are still being targeted.
The Freedom Front Plus has proposed many times that the Metro should approach private security companies to help guard infrastructure.
These companies possess the expertise and resources needed to respond swiftly to such incidents.
The Metro’s approach is not only expensive, but also ineffective.
No less than six mini-substations in Birchleigh, Kempton Park, have been vandalised, and had to be replaced, since January.
The wholesale price of one such mini-substation is approximately R300 000 before installation, which increases the total cost. The party is of the opinion that it would cost the Metro much less to guard these mini-substations.
Ekurhuleni residents deserve pro-active and sustainable solutions that ensure uninterrupted power supply.
