Cape Town has become the first city in South Africa to deploy advanced pole manipulator trucks, designed to enhance streetlight maintenance and repairs. These state-of-the-art vehicles, equipped with cutting-edge technology, are set to transform the efficiency and safety of streetlight operations across the metro.
The City maintains over 245,000 streetlights, with plans to invest over R63 million in its fleet of aerial platform trucks, crane trucks, and light motor vehicles in the new financial year.
During a recent demonstration in Epping, Alderman Xanthea Limberg, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, highlighted the capabilities of the new 26-tonne pole manipulator truck.
“The City’s pole manipulator trucks are equipped with advanced features specifically for streetlight installation and maintenance,” said Limberg. “During our visit, our teams replaced an 11-metre streetlight damaged in an accident, reenergizing the affected stretch of road.”
The truck’s powerful crane, advanced aerial platform, and motorised accessories enable it to handle heavy loads of up to 4.5 tonnes and lift about 500 kilogrammes when fully extended. Its versatility reduces installation and maintenance times by over 50%, significantly improving service delivery.
Safety is another key feature of the truck. It can block electronic interference, operate remotely, and perform multiple tasks simultaneously, minimizing crew exposure to hazardous situations.
“The remarkable vehicle combines technological advancements and unmatched safety features to improve service delivery for all Capetonians,” Limberg added.
The City currently operates three pole manipulator trucks, with plans for further investment in the fleet.
These trucks are crucial for:
- Improved response times: Reducing pole replacement turnaround times by up to 50%.
- Personnel safety: Advanced features like remote control limit exposure to hazards.
- Cost-effectiveness: Reducing downtime leads to long-term savings.
- Community wellbeing: A well-maintained streetlight network enhances public safety.
“The City remains committed to service delivery in all areas and continues to invest in the necessary resources to ensure efficient and reliable service delivery for all,” Limberg concluded.
