A major power outage has struck parts of the Johannesburg inner city following a fire at a central electricity substation early on Saturday morning, according to City Power.

City Power. spokesperson Isaac Mangena that the fire was reported around 6am leading to widespread electricity disruptions across key areas including Marshalltown, Selby, the Standard Bank precinct, Carlton Centre, and parts of the Johannesburg CBD.

Emergency response teams, including Emergency Management Services and Johannesburg Fire Services, were dispatched to the scene and remain on site working to contain and manage the situation.

Mangena said technical teams have not yet been granted access to the substation, as emergency personnel continue their operations adding that a full assessment of the damage can only begin once the site has been declared safe and formally handed over.

"As a precautionary measure, the entire substation has been taken offline. This remains necessary to ensure the safety of personnel and to prevent further damage to infrastructure. At this stage, there are no confirmed reports of injuries. The site remains secured while emergency services continue their work," added Mangena.

He said that teams are on standby and will conduct a comprehensive technical and diagnostic assessment once access is permitted. The cause of the fire is still unknown and will be investigated as part of a formal inquiry.

Meanwhile, residents and businesses in affected areas have been urged to remain patient as efforts to stabilise the situation continue.

Affected customers will be updated on any developments made.

This article was originally posted by IOL