By Malebo Pheme
While numerous South Africans enjoyed a relaxing Easter weekend with their loved ones, residents in certain areas of Makhanda encountered a different reality: dry taps and power interruptions.
A scheduled interruption in water supply that started on 16 April extended longer than anticipated due to issues encountered during maintenance at Slaagpan, where the valve installation was postponed because of a slow-draining water line.
“The contractor was only able to start the installation on Wednesday morning after two full days of draining,” according to the Makana Municipality Communications Office. “The work will definitely be completed in the afternoon, and the water supply will resume immediately.”
However, for people in Extension 10, Hooggenoeg, Vergenoeg, and Oatlands North, who didn’t have running water for a large portion of the week, “immediately” didn’t feel immediate. Residents juggled their long weekend relaxation plans with water collection buckets. Temporary water truck deliveries brought some relief, but dissatisfaction was simmering.
The issue was made worse by an unscheduled power outage that began late on Good Friday and affected a significant portion of Oatlands and the central business district. As per municipal notices, a breakdown in an underground cable between Prince Main and the African substation cut off power to vital locations such as Diocesan School for Girls, Settlers Hospital, St Andrews Colleg, and Pepper Grove Mall.
In response to appeals, Makana electrical engineer Mzomhle Radu worked through the Easter weekend with minimal staff, playing a central role in restoring power. He co-ordinated closely with Hi-Tec Security and municipal teams, providing regular updates and leading repair efforts under challenging conditions. His swift, hands-on response was key in returning power to most affected suburbs by Sunday evening.
It then became evident that after a major underground cable fault had left large parts of Makhanda without electricity.
Most suburbs were back online by Sunday evening, though Fitzroy Street, parts of West Hill, and Sunnyside remained without power. While water services gradually resumed, the disruption highlighted the fragility of the town’s infrastructure.
Amid the chaos, a sense of camaraderie developed despite the general frustration. The community commended local council members, Hi-Tec, and Radu for their commitment and open communication. Others emphasised the necessity of structural changes and sufficient municipal funding.
In a WhatsApp group, a local observed, “This town has many problems, but it also has some wonderful public-spirited folk.” Residents also expressed sincere gratitude for Radu’s efforts. “We need to figure out how to give Mr Radu a huge thank you,” someone commented.
This wasn’t the holiday that many had anticipated, but it was a weekend that demonstrated the resilience and camaraderie of a community that wasn’t to be left in the dark (or dry) for very long.
