By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Johannesburg emergency management services (EMS) are attending to an underground cable fire in the early hours of Wednesday along the M1 near the north double-decker section.
A cloud of dark smoke covered a large section of the highway.
Gauteng emergency services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said they are still investigating the cause of the fire.
“It is mostly underground cables which supply electricity to Braamfontein and surrounding areas. We have got our colleagues from City Power to open up the tunnel as we continue to extinguish the fire.
“The fire has affected part of the highway, mostly Smith Street. We are extinguishing the fire towards the West, and we encourage our motorists to exercise caution while driving in that area.
“So far, the area between Empire and Crown Interchange has been closed off, so we are urging our motorists to avoid that area as we are still busy extinguishing the fire.
“In terms of electricity interruption, City Power will give feedback on which areas might be affected by this underground fire.”
Mulaudzi said no injuries have been reported.
City Power said the fire broke out at a section of its Fordsburg Substation.
“The fire was caused by an attempted theft of our infrastructure by unknown perpetrators. Our team is currently on-site, along with the fire fighting department and risk control, to manage the situation.”
“The affected areas include Braamfontein, Page View, Parktown, Melville, Amalgam, Vrededop, Johannesburg, and its surroundings.
“We will continue to provide updates to affected customers regarding any further developments. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience while we work to resolve the issue”.