GRAAFF-REINET NEWS — Concern was this week expressed by a Graaff-Reinetter after they spotted an article in a provincial newspaper on November 23 stating that Eskom will soon be cutting its supply to areas within the Dr Beyers Naude Municipality.

According to the article, the Dr Beyers Naude Municipality is one of three municipalities that Eskom have threated to cut supply to unless a debt of R16.8 million owed by the Dr Beyers Naude Municipality to Eskom is settled.

Eskom warned that the municipality will be disconnected from January 1, 2017.

Eskom went on to further say supply would be cut at certain intervals daily, while a total blackout was possible if debts were not addressed.

The power utility plans, as of January 1, 2017 to indefinitely cut supply between 6am and 8am and between 5pm and 7.30pm on weekdays.

On Saturdays and Sundays supply would be cut between 8.30am and 11am and 3pm and 5.30pm.

Eskom spokesperson Zama Mpondwana said should the debt situation not improve, the utility would completely cut power indefinitely.

According to Leolynn Smith, the municipalities communications officer, the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality is in arrears with Eskom.

There is however an agreement between the municipality and Eskom to settle the account.

The Municipality plans to pay an instalment to Eskom on December 1 and then again on December 22, bringing the account up to date, in line with the agreed upon payment plan.

"The Municipality cannot divulge any amounts as these details are confidential up until such time when it is discussed by the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipal Council," said Smith.

She continued, "Please note that the Ikwezi, Camdeboo and Baviaans Local Municipalities no longer exist. The municipalities amalgamated to form the new municipality of the Dr Beyers Naudé Municipality and the new municipality has inherited debtors and creditors from the former municipalities."

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