Tembisa was brought to a complete standstill on Monday morning, 23 February.
This after angry residents shut down major roads, torching tyres and hurling stones in protest over pre-termination notices issued to homeowners.
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The shutdown caused chaos ekasi, with key routes blocked and traffic at a dead stop.
Some workers were forced to abandon their commute and walk back home as tensions flared up and disruptions intensified.
Abahlali said they are furious over pre-termination and termination notices linked to electricity disconnections and outstanding municipal bills.
Protesters argue many households are unemployed or financially strained and should qualify for assistance under the City’s indigent policy.
“We are struggling to put food on the table, now they want to cut electricity and take our homes,” said one resident, Nhlanhla Ndaba.
Abahlali said the city is ignoring their situation.
Community members vowed to continue with the shutdown until their demands are addressed.
Ahead of the protest, the City of Ekurhuleni admitted tensions were rising in Thembisa.
The City’s executive mayor, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, said he had taken note of the planned shutdown and the concerns raised by residents over electricity disconnections, termination notices and issues linked to the indigent policy.
He said the city had already held consultations with ward councillors and community representatives and insisted the municipality remained committed to engaging constructively with affected residents.
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Meanwhile, residents said talk is not enough, and until action is taken, Thembisa will remain shut down.
