The Democratic Alliance (DA) Johannesburg conducted an oversight inspection at the Bree Street site where a 65-year-old transformer located next to an active construction area, exploded.
English soundbite by Cllr Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku
This incident is not an accident, it is the direct result of chronic neglect, ageing infrastructure, and the City’s failure to protect critical assets.
It is unacceptable that a transformer well past its lifespan was still in operation in the CBD, after decades of repairs instead of replacement. Even more concerning is the absence of basic infrastructure protection measures, despite repeated DA calls for an infrastructure protection plan involving all spheres of government.
The explosion plunged surrounding buildings into darkness, leaving residents and businesses exposed and vulnerable. The complete lack of visible police or JMPD presence during the blackout is another notable serious failure of public safety and emergency coordination.
The DA is demanding immediate answers from the Executive:
- Why was a 65-year-old transformer still in service, and when was it last properly assessed?
- How many repairs were done instead of replacing this transformer, and who approved that decision?
- How much did these repairs, if any were done, cost?
- What protection measures were in place near an active construction site — and why did they fail?
- What urgent steps will be taken to replace ageing transformers and protect critical infrastructure city-wide?
Johannesburg residents are paying the price for an incompetent ANC-EFF-PA coalition that reacts only after disasters strike. The DA will continue to hold the Executive accountable and demand immediate action to protect residents, infrastructure, and public safety.