EMLM Annual Report Flags High Electrocution Risk in Electricity Network

Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality (EMLM) has identified a high risk of electrocution within parts of its electricity network, according to its officially tabled 2024/2025 Annual Report (ITEM 1/2026).

The disclosure appears under the electricity management and risk section of the report, where the municipality outlines operational and safety risks affecting the power distribution system.

High Human Risk Identified

The Annual Report states that there is a high risk of human beings, including municipal employees, being electrocuted due to open pillar boxes and faulty substations within the municipal area.

The document further notes that defective electrical infrastructure increases the likelihood of safety incidents if not properly secured and maintained.

Illegal Connections and Theft

The report also highlights a high prevalence of illegal electricity connections within certain areas of the municipality.

It states that arrests and convictions relating to electricity theft remain low, which continues to pose both financial and safety risks to the electricity network.

Infrastructure Deterioration

According to the Annual Report, the municipality’s electricity network has not been fully maintained due to resource constraints. It notes that available staff are primarily engaged in responding to faults rather than conducting preventative maintenance.

The report states that the electricity infrastructure is deteriorating and that the municipality is required to allocate 6% of generated revenue toward maintenance of the network.

High-Risk Substations

Within the Queenstown area, the report identifies the Ezibeleni Substation and Alexandria Substation as high risk due to defective equipment.

These substations serve surrounding residential areas and form part of the municipality’s broader power distribution system.

Financial Pressures Linked to Electricity

The Annual Report also references financial pressures linked to electricity operations, including revenue losses due to theft and tampering, as well as escalating bulk electricity obligations.

The electrocution risk disclosure forms part of the municipality’s broader risk management and infrastructure assessment for the 2024/2025 financial year.