Staff Reporter.
Metrorail services in Gauteng have been disrupted as the adverse weather have affected the train lines and infrastructure.
Affected lines from Saulsville to Pretoria, Centurion to Pretoria, Leralla to Germiston and Naledi to Johannesburg.
The cold weather negatively impacts the infrastructure and its components including tracks, cross-over points, and electrical cables.
Spokesperson, Lillian Mofokeng the says overhead wires also experience tension which results in power instability and failure.
“The Saulsville-Pretoria, Naledi-Johannesburg and Leralla-Germiston train services are currently suspended to allow the technical team to work on the infrastructure,” says Mofokeng .
“The electricity had to be switched off on both lines in Naledi, Leralla and Saulsville to allow the technical team to commence with repair work of the affected section.”
“Commuters are advised to seek alternative transport until further notice. Refunds are also facilitated at Metrorail train stations for affected commuters,” she added.
The SA Weather Service (SAWS) has reported a significant drop in temperatures across Gauteng due to the cold front.
According to SAWS, maximum temperatures in northern areas of Gauteng are expected to reach only 13°C, with minimum temperatures meeting the criteria for snowy conditions.
Snowfall has been observed in several areas, including Soweto, Alberton and Roodepoort.
The eastern areas of Gauteng, Heidelberg and parts of Vosloorus have particularly experienced significant snowfall, with light snow and sleet still possible over the Highveld and the Mpumalanga escarpment.
In addition to the transportation disruptions, Gauteng is also facing challenges in electricity supply. Eskom announced that due to high demand and a slight reduction in generation capacity, Stage 4 load shedding would be implemented from 13:00 today until 05:00 on Tuesday.
Joburg’s City Power said that they have managed the high electricity demand relatively well, resulting in fewer outages across Johannesburg overnight and over the weekend.
City Power acknowledged the concerns of residents in conserving electricity during this inclement weather by heeding the call to change their behaviour and reduce usage.
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.