JOHANNESBURG - Alexandra residents took to the streets on Tuesday in protest for prolonged power cuts in their area.
Several routes around the township were blocked by burning tyres and other debris.
Traces of burnt tyres were also seen in front of the gates of the power utility.
Resident, Lebo Sediane said this was unreasonable. He said there have been multiple attempts to engage City Power on the power restoration delays however they do not get a clear answer.
"We have been struggling with electricity for the past three weeks and their excuse to use is that it is raining and they can not address the issue. We came back here again today and they giving us a different date on when the power will return," he said.
Another resident Bandile Manana was adamant that they pay for electricity but suffer the brunt of those who do not pay.
City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena confirmed that the protest was over delays in restoring power cuts.
Mangena says the power outage occurred on Monday and affected customers from 3rd Avenue to 5th Avenue.
He adds efforts to deal with the issue were interrupted by the continued rain within the province.
"Our technicians have been actively working to address the situation; however, the rainfall posed significant challenges in their efforts to repair the faulty overhead lines," Mangena said.
He further lamented that the ongoing protest by the residents on Tuesday caused further delays in addressing the power supply disruption.
"We, however, are pleased that finally, the power supply has been fully restored. It is crucial to highlight that working on power lines during adverse weather conditions, particularly heavy rain, presents serious safety risks," he explained.
By Zandile Khumalo