One of the homes that were demolished on Thursday.
Image: Bongani Hans
Eskom subsidiary National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) has explained the importance of a site in Thornville, outside Pietermaritzburg for South Africa’s electricity transmission network and development plan.
This comes after NTCSA moved to demolish several unlawfully erected structures and dwellings on the land, owned by it on Thursday. Several residents had “purchased land” and built large dwellings investing significantly in the properties. According to IOL, some had taken bonds or loans to build their homes and complete furnishings and they had been unaware that the land was owned by NTCSA.
The demolition took place on Thursday, affecting Portions 8, 9, and 22 of the Farm Leliefontein and Erf 67 Thornville. The land sits adjacent to the Ariadne Substation, a vital node in South Africa’s electricity transmission network.
In a statement, the NTCSA expressed "deep regret" over the situation but maintained that legal action was the only remaining path after repeated attempts to resolve the occupation amicably failed.
It said the action comes after a series of final court orders issued by the Pietermaritzburg High Court in late 2025. The court granted the orders on September 11, November 11, and November 14, providing the legal backing for the NTCSA to clear the land.
According to the utility, the occupied areas are essential servitudes for several major high-voltage transmission lines, including:
Investigations into the occupation revealed a "land grab" scheme where portions of the NTCSA-owned property were reportedly "allocated" and sold by unauthorised individuals.
"Unauthorised occupation not only poses significant public safety risks but also delays implementation of the Transmission Development Plan (TDP), which is essential for strengthening the country’s power supply," the NTCSA stated.
The utility emphasised that living under or near high-voltage lines, some carrying up to 400kV, presents a lethal risk to residents. Beyond the immediate physical danger, the encroachment prevents the maintenance and expansion of the national grid.
"As the registered owner of the land, the NTCSA is legally obligated to secure its assets and ensure that servitudes remain clear," the statement read.
"While we empathise with the individuals affected, the NTCSA must prioritise public safety, the integrity of the transmission network and the long-term interests of all South Africans."
The NTCSA has issued a stern warning to the public to refrain from occupying servitudes, noting that such actions jeopardise the country's energy future.
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