At around 21:15 on Monday (23/2), one of the 132/33 kVa transformers exploded, causing a fire and significant disruption to the electricity supply network.

“Following an explosion yesterday at one of our distribution centres in Bayswater, our teams are already on site, as you can see, working tirelessly to make sure power is restored in all affected areas,” said Centlec acting spokesperson Tsheliso Leba.

“Plans are already in place to replace all ageing infrastructure in our area of operation, including the 48-year-old transformer that failed us last night. Regular updates will be communicated as new developments become available.”

The incident exposed deep vulnerabilities in the city’s critical electricity infrastructure, said Mangaung DA Cllr Maartens. 

“To make matters worse, hours after the ‘repairs’, an explosion at the Bayswater DC on 23 February at 21:25 plunged the northern suburbs back into darkness. Restoration time could range from 24 hours to several days.

“Information gathered on site indicates the failure originated at the 132 kV level, where an ageing incoming breaker malfunctioned. The equipment was reportedly so old that external specialists had to be called in. During restoration attempts, concerns emerged around transformer oil levels,” she added.

Additional issues, including inadequately charged DC batteries and problems with the Neutral Earthing Resistor, prevented certain loads from being restored.

“We acknowledge and appreciate the technicians who worked tirelessly to prevent further damage and restore the supply. However, the real issue is governance, maintenance discipline, and asset risk management.

Critical infrastructure

“This is not a single fault, but a resilience failure across multiple layers of critical infrastructure,” said Maartens.

The prolonged outage is a threat to businesses and essential services. Residents reported malfunctioning appliances and spoiled food, adding financial strain at a time when the cost of living is already high. 

The Maselspoort water treatment plant is also affected, meaning water and electricity could be unavailable for several hours or even days.

Mangaung metro informed residents on Tuesday (24/2) that water shedding was experienced as a result of the power failure at the Maselspoort plant.

Areas

Affected areas include Bayswater, Dan Pienaar, Noordhoek, parts of Waverley, Heliconhoogte, Heuwelsig, Pentagon Park, Naval Hill, Westdene, Maselspoort, Bram Fischer Airport, and surrounding suburbs. Supply would be gradually restored once power is fully reinstated and reservoirs have recharged.

“This prolonged disruption of essential services is completely unacceptable,” said Maartens.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg