Johannesburg – The Public Servants Association (PSA) has sounded the alarm over possible service delivery disruption in the Joburg Central Business District (CBD) owing to the underground fire that erupted along the M1 on Workers’ Day.
The fire broke out on Thursday morning, 1 May 2025, and damaged underground infrastructure, which caused power outages in Braamfontein, Parktown West, Newtown Junction, De Korte North, Smith West, and surrounding areas.
Commenting on the matter, the PSA on Sunday, (4 May 2025), said it had been told by the City of Johannesburg that, as a result of the now extinguished underground fire, service delivery was expected to be disrupted.
Several government departments operate from the Joburg CBD, the union noted.
When the fire erupted under the M1 South, near the Smith Street exit in Braamfontein, Johannesburg Emergency Services battled the blaze until they extinguished it.
Tunnels under the M1 were ventilated to remove smoke and ensure the area was safe.
Preliminary investigations indicate that cable theft and vandalism may have caused the fire.
Speculation was also that the incident could be linked to a growing trend of criminal activities underground related to illegal mining.
“While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, initial reports indicate that critical infrastructure may have been affected, including power supply lines servicing municipal offices and government buildings,” the PSA said.
“The disruption is likely to affect essential public services such as licensing, housing, and social development offices in the area.”
The PSA said it was working closely with City Power, the Johannesburg Emergency Management Services, and the Johannesburg Metro Police Department to secure the area and restore normal operations as soon as possible.
“In the interim, the public is advised that some government buildings in the CBD may experience power outages and reduced service capacity,”‘ the PSA warned.
“Motorists should avoid the M1 South after the Smith Street exit owing to lane closures and traffic congestion, and residents requiring urgent municipal services are encouraged to make use of online platforms where available or visit alternative service centres.”
The PSA urged residents and commuters to remain patient and cooperative as emergency teams continue with recovery efforts.
