Note Editors: Please see find soundbite here
The Central Karoo has been devastated by the impact of the gale force winds and heavy rains yesterday that damaged the Laingsburg/Touwsrivier 132kV power lines Saturday night, 03 February – areas including, but not limited to:
• Laingsburg,
• Leeu-Gamka,
• Merweville,
• Matjiesfontein, and
• Prince Albert.
It has been reported that it could lead to extended periods of power interruptions and delays in restoration efforts.
While the DA in the Central Karoo comprehend the extensive damage that has occurred, we call upon Eskom to ensure speedy restoration of electricity, considering the possible damage and spoilage to resident’s food supplies. Furthermore, many residents are currently without power supply for cellular and telephone devices and therefore unable to communicate with loved ones, and risk not being able to communicate emergencies. Farming enterprises have suffered damage to their crops; and the weather damage risks damage to water and sewerage systems.
The DA in the Central Karoo further will liaise with the Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Minister Anton Bredell to send provincial assistance to the Central Karoo to ensure that water and sewerage systems keep on running and that the residents’ health are not further affected.