City of Tshwane MMC for Utilities Themba Fosi has assured Pretoria East residents that repairs at the Heartherly substation are “on track”.

Fosi gave an update on the progress of the work being done following cable theft and vandalism at the substation on Monday morning.

The incident left residents in several suburbs of Pretoria East without electricity.

Tshwane spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said during the two hours of load shedding on Monday, about 20 suspects stormed the substation and held the security personnel at gunpoint.

"At least nine medium voltage cables were stolen, and the substation vandalised, and that resulted in a fire outbreak. Following the outburst of flame at the substation, the emergency services department was activated to extinguish the fire."

Affected areas included Savanah Estate, Greecreek, The Blydes, Nellmapius Extension 3,67,8 and 22 and Pienaarspoort.

Fosi said repairs will be completed by midday on Tuesday.

"Five out of nine panels have tested okay, and currently, the cable placement is almost complete. I can say that by midday, a certain number of residents will be up and running, but we will make sure that we speedily resolve this issue.

"I would like again to say in instances where it is load shedding, residents, please be on the lookout. If you see something which is not alright, please inform our Tshwane metro police officers or the South African Police Service so that we can curb the sporadic vandalism and cable theft in our infrastructure."

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