GTM UNVEILS FOUR NEW 4X4s FOR ELECTRICAL DEPARTMENT

GTM UNVEILS FOUR NEW 4X4s FOR ELECTRICAL DEPARTMENT

Greater Tzaneen, July 30, 2024 — Councillor Conny Ramothwala, Head of Infrastructure for the Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM), officially handed over four new 4x4 bakkies to the electrical department today. The handover ceremony took place at the municipality’s headquarters

"In the last financial year, we delivered two new Toyota Land Cruisers to the electrical department to accelerate service delivery," said Councillor Ramothwala. "I promised that if the department performed well, we would acquire more vehicles. Today, we have delivered on that promise." She urged the drivers to treat the new vehicles with care, likening their maintenance to caring for partners or children, to ensure their longevity and effective service delivery to the community.

Freedom Mthetwa, Director of Electrical Engineering, highlighted the capabilities of the new 4x4 bakkies. "These vehicles are fully equipped with electrical toolboxes and have the necessary provisions for step ladders and lifting equipment," Mthetwa explained. "They are designed to adapt to the rocky, mountainous terrain that characterizes much of our municipality." He expects the vehicles to serve the municipality for at least the next five years or provide up to 500,000 kilometers of mileage.

The Greater Tzaneen Municipality oversees an extensive electrical network spanning 3,800 kilometers of overhead cables, much of which is located in highly vegetated areas. Mthetwa noted that the aging network presents ongoing challenges, particularly with vegetation affecting the system. The new 4x4s will play a crucial role in maintaining and upgrading this infrastructure, ensuring reliable electricity for residents across the municipality.