City works with fibre companies to repair infrastructure damage
To minimise the inconvenience experienced by residents and businesses during the laying of fibre optics cables, the municipality said a dedicated team of electricians and plumbers will be on standby to deal with any water and electricity faults.
ETHEKWINI Municipality has apologised for the inconvenience caused to residents after infrastructure was damaged during the laying of fibre optics cables in suburbs around the city.
The city said they were working in partnership with fibre companies to repair the numerous electricity cable and water pipes which were damaged.
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City spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela said the laying of fibre is done by private companies and is not a city project.
“Although companies need to apply to the municipality for permission to lay the fibre, some companies neglected to do this. As a result, they were not aware of where electricity and water infrastructure were situated,” explained Mayisela.
According to the spokesperson, the city has since engaged with fibre companies and made them aware of the procedure to submit their paperwork before any work can be approved.
“Fibre companies are also made aware of the location of power lines and water infrastructure, depending on where they will be working. As per their agreement with the csity, they are also liable for all damages incurred during the installations.
“A dedicated team of electricians and plumbers will be on standby to deal with any water and electricity faults,” said Mayisela.
He added that this will minimise the inconvenience experienced by residents and businesses.
“The Roads and Stormwater Maintenance Department has a dedicated Clerk of Works who monitors these contractors and ensures compliance on site.
“They are the first point of contact in the event of any damages or noncompliance. They are also entitled to stop work in case of major transgression.”
Residents who want to report or get more information about the fibre installations can call the Roads and Stormwater Maintenance department on 031 322 7241.
All damages should be reported to this number as well, so that the offending parties can be dealt with.
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