Vandalism and burst pipes add to Tongaat water woes

Vandalism, theft and burst pipes are delaying the return of full water supply to some Tongaat areas, according to eThekwini municipality spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela.

Since the reconstruction of the flood-damaged Othongathi water treatment plant in October, residents have been hopeful that their struggle for water supply in Tongaat would have come to an end.

But this has not been the case.

Initially told that running water would be available by mid-November, residents are still only receiving water for a few hours after days of no supply.

They also complain they are not provided with a set schedule of when water will be available to help them plan.

Mayisela said the city was aware of the challenges.

“The system has not been in operation for quite some time, and after standing idle for some time, multiple pipe bursts occur when water flow comes through.

“This impedes our efforts to build capacity in some of our reservoirs. However, we are proud of the progress our teams on the ground are making to stabilise the system, with more than 90 percent of the city now having access to piped water. Where we experience challenges, we deliver water with water tankers while attending to faults,” said Mayisela.

He added that unrelenting vandalism of infrastructure during which air valves and water metres were stolen added to the problem.

“We are appealing to the public to work with us to unmask these thieves. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and want to assure the public we will not rest until water is restored in every household.”

Follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube for breaking news

Telegram Broadcast Service: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0

WhatsApp Broadcast Service: Add The Courier to WhatsApp at 082 792 9405 and WhatsApp your name and surname to be added.