Emergency Power Outage Announced in Potch Due to Substation Fault
- Karen Scheepers
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Date: 12 May 2025
Location: JB Marks Local Municipality
In a sudden but necessary move, JB Marks Local Municipality has announced an emergency power outage today, 12 May 2025, to address a critical fault at the Alpha Substation. The decision, issued earlier this morning by the municipality’s communication unit, involves the urgent repair of a 66kV outdoor substation link that, if left unattended, could result in severe damage to essential electrical infrastructure.
Reason for the Outage
According to the official notice, the fault at the Alpha Substation poses an immediate threat to the municipality’s electrical equipment. To prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the system, a shutdown was scheduled to commence at 14:00 today. Municipal engineers and emergency response teams have been deployed to carry out the necessary repairs.
Areas Affected
The outage will impact several residential, commercial, and institutional zones across Potchefstroom, including:
Suid Dorp
Miederpark
Wilgeboom
CBD Area
Dassierand
Kanonierspark
Promosa
Grimbeeckpark
A portion of Bailliepark (including Wynn Street, Rooibok Street, and Ditedu Street)
North-West University (NWU)
Military installations
Mediclinic
Witrand Hospital
The wide scope of affected areas includes key healthcare and educational institutions, increasing the urgency and complexity of the response operation.
Estimated Restoration Time
While the municipality estimates that power may be restored by 17:00 this afternoon, residents are urged to treat all electrical outlets and systems as live. This caution is due to the possibility of power being reinstated earlier than scheduled without warning.
Municipal spokespersons have emphasized the importance of safety and vigilance, encouraging residents to unplug sensitive devices and prepare for intermittent power supply throughout the afternoon.
Public Response and Communication
The JB Marks Communication Unit has committed to keeping residents informed via official channels and encourages the public to follow updates closely. As the repairs unfold, residents are advised to report any electrical anomalies or emergencies through the municipality’s hotline or online service portal.
For more information and updates, residents can visit www.jbmarks.co.za
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