Eskom has announced an emergency nine-hour power outage in parts of Gauteng as the utility continues essential maintenance on its distribution network.
Residents should prepare for a full day without electricity on Thursday, 29 January, from 9:00 to 18:00.
Areas Affected by the Outage
The electricity disruption will specifically impact Diepkloof in Soweto, covering Zones 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6.
Eskom stressed that this temporary interruption is necessary to service and maintain the distribution lines that provide power to homes and businesses in the area.
“Planned maintenance is essential to ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of our electricity supply,” Eskom said, emphasizing the importance of keeping infrastructure in good working order.
Safety Precautions During the Outage
Eskom has urged all residents to treat electrical appliances as live during the outage, warning that safety should remain a priority even when the power is off.
“Customers should take care around any electrical devices and circuits,” the utility advised.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and ask for understanding, as circumstances beyond our control may affect the maintenance schedule.”
Why Maintenance Is Critical
Maintaining the distribution network is part of Eskom’s ongoing efforts to prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensure consistent service across Gauteng.
Regular servicing reduces the risk of prolonged outages and helps keep the electricity system stable, especially during peak demand periods.
While outages are never convenient, Eskom said the scheduled work is vital to protecting the infrastructure that powers homes, businesses, and essential services across the province.
What Residents Should Expect
Residents in the affected zones should expect no electricity for the full nine hours, and it’s recommended to plan ahead by charging devices, securing perishables, and making arrangements for essential needs.
Eskom’s maintenance work highlights the balancing act between keeping the network safe and reliable while minimizing inconvenience for consumers.
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