Residents dig trenches to fast-track water supply

iLembe district municipality has dismissed claims that it forced KwaDukuza ward 25 residents to dig trenches for water pipes.

According to a media report, Mdlebeni residents (inland from Doornkop) had to dig trenches in their area if they hoped to receive water.

“We wish to clarify that this was a partnership gesture by the residents themselves,” said municipal spokesperson, Zee Nqala.

She explained residents offered to help because they felt waiting for municipal processes may delay the provision of water to them.

Trenches were dug for the laying of new pipes as some sections of the area were not reticulated.

“Residents said they believed this would assist in fast-tracking the process of receiving water. This was obviously welcomed by the municipality because it showed courage and underscored the willingness of ward 25 residents to partner with government,” she said.

Ward 25 councillor Sfiso Khuzwayo said an opposition councillor had misled a journalist on the issue.

“The residents are working hand-in-hand with the municipality so they can get water. They offered to do this on their own.”

According to Khuzwayo, about 3 000 people stand to benefit once the new pipes have been installed. Similarly, in KwaDukuza ward 1 residents have now also offered their assistance.

“We applaud these communities for their selfless acts and we wish to emphasise that service delivery, specifically water supply, is for all of us to use and to partner in preserving it,” Nqala concluded.

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