This is according to Ward councilor Igor Scheurkogel, and follows after Welkom residents took to the streets on Tuesday/Wednesday evening to show their frustration; burning tires and obstructing traffic.

Speaking to OFM News Scheurkogel said that electricity supply has been a problem since beginning of the year, adding it becomes worse each time substations are vandalized or cables stolen.

Scheurkogel says the main reason for electricity outages is poor maintenance by the Matjhabeng Local Municipality.

He further adds necessary maintenance can't be done due to the municipality’s new overtime rules, or that it takes too long for the Municipal Manager to approve worker call outs.

Scheurkogel is of the view that the situation will continue as long as the Matjhabeng Municipality puts off maintenance work on crumbling infrastructure.

OFM News has sent an enquiry and is awaiting the Matjhabeng Municipality’s response.

OFM News/Isaac Mosia