Eskom says it is working to repair damage at the Kriel power station after it caught fire on Wednesday.

The power utility’s spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha confirmed the incident and said it happened on Wednesday when a steam pipe rupture occurred on unit 2.

He said there were no injuries and the estimated return to service is 10 days from Wednesday.

Kriel power station 😳😳😳 wonder if it’s an accident or sabotage? @news24 ⁦⁦@bonglez⁩ ⁦@nickhedley⁩ ⁦@eNCA⁩ pic.twitter.com/uPKudll4yf

Meanwhile, a fire broke out at the Kriel mine on Monday when a conveyor belt caught fire.

According to Seriti Resources Holdings, which owns the mine, a veld fire which started on a neighbouring farm crossed over the firebreak onto the Seriti property and was fanned by excessive winds.

Seriti said it was working with Eskom to ensure no disruption to coal supply at the Kriel power station.

Support independent journalism by subscribing to the Sunday Times. Just R20 for the first month.

Would you like to comment on this article? Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.

News and promos in your inbox

Read more at the SA government's online coronavirus portal or use the 24-hour public hotline: 0800 029 999