Hope for clean water in Ndwedwe has been dealt a severe blow after key infrastructure was torched in a suspected act of sabotage.

The R68-million Umshwathi Bulk Water Scheme, originally scheduled for completion in September, suffered a serious setback after 29 bulk water pipes were allegedly set alight last Friday at the Mthombeni Bus Stop site in Ward 8.

This left more than 20 homes without electricity, as the electrical infrastructure was also damaged in the area.

The infrastructure project intends to supply clean water to Ndwedwe Wards 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9

These are rural areas with little to no infrastructure. Residents are at the mercy of unreliable water tankers, while others fetch water from rivers and boreholes.

Through this project, 25 000 people from about 3 000 households have been promised piped water connections to their homes.

iLembe district mayor Thobani Shandu condemned the incident, calling it “an attack on the dignity and rights of Ndwedwe residents.”

“This was not just vandalism, it was a direct attack on people who have waited years for basic services. We will not be intimidated or derailed. Our commitment to delivering this vital service remains firm,” said Shandu.

An initial site inspection indicated the fire was unlikely to have started naturally. While the results of a formal forensic investigation are pending, authorities suspect deliberate sabotage.

Authorities noted that there had been no previous disputes or community opposition to the project.

A criminal case has been opened at Nsuze Police Station and investigations are underway.

The destruction of the pipes means delays are now inevitable, as materials will need to be reordered and project timelines adjusted. The full cost of the damage is yet to be assessed.

Mayor Shandu appealed to the public for information.

“We urge anyone with knowledge of the perpetrators to come forward. This act has hurt the entire community.”

At the time of publication, no arrests had been made.

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