Underground fire in cable tunnel left parts of Johannesburg without power

An underground fire in a cable tunnel left parts of Johannesburg's central business district without power on 17 November 2008. All electricity services south of President and Market streets -- which includes approximately 20,000 businesses -- were affected as a result of the fire, which broke out at approximately 0400 local time. Authorities suspect that the fire occurred when thieves attempted to steal the cables. Emergency services were unable to access the tunnel to put out the fire for eight hours due to the heat and smoke. City officials have stated that crews were able to restore power to approximately 60 percent of the affected area by 1000 local time on 18 November, but it is unclear when services will be fully restored to the other customers. Traffic in the area continues to be chaotic due to non-functioning traffic lights and street lighting.