Telkom R260 reconnection fee

I had the unfortunate problem of paying my Telkom account late due my wife losing her job recently. Had it paid up but my concern is why would Telkom charge us R260 for reconnection? I dont mind paying the small amount R10 for late fee but the reconnection fee ia absolutely ridiculous. My contract is ending aoon and im definitely not continuing with Telkom. Its sad that you cant find an easier solution to customers.