eskomANA reports that at least one worker died in an explosion at Eskom’s Lethabo power plant in Free State on Wednesday afternoon, while another worker has been seriously injured.  

Eskom was still investigating the “major incident that took place at Unit 5” of the power station, the power utility said in a statement.  It was apparently waiting for a large dust cloud to clear to enable a more thorough search for workers.  “We can confirm that there are injuries but cannot confirm further details at this stage.  Management’s first priority is to ensure the safety of all staff on site.  More information to follow as details become clearer,” Eskom said.  Meanwhile, an Eskom customer network centre or depot in Orange Farm, Gauteng, was evacuated earlier on Wednesday following damage to the building and vehicles caused by angry protesters who were against audits being done on electrical installations and the removal of illegal connections.  Eskom has experienced similar protests in other parts of Gauteng, with the most recent incidents happening in Diepsloot, Protea Glen, Katlehong, and Winterveldt.


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