THERE have been calls for speedier response times to repair unattended water leaks, bursts, and other water supply challenges in Ward 110.

Ward 110 which includes areas like Sunningdale, Glen Anil and a portion of Glen Hills has seen a number of leaks reported in the last few months.

PR ward councillor Rowena Bosman said recurring bursts need long term solutions, as the continued repetitive bursts were cause for concern.

Also read: Calls for pipe replacement on Umhlanga Rocks Drive

At the heart of the problem has been that the eThekwini Municipality and plumbers were at loggerheads over payment delays, rates of pay and the new system of filing invoices, among other issues.

While news on Sunday from the City suggested that issues are being resolved, only time will tell if response times will improve, leading to less water wastage.

“Across Durban, there has been a backlog because of outstanding bursts, leaks and recurring problems. Glen Anil Street in particular has been a major issue with several bursts over the last few years. I have liaised with and asked senior officials to consider replacing full lengths of water supply pipes, rather than replacing and joining the pipes piece by piece.

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“The other issue we’ve faced recently is the time between reporting repairs and for repairs to commence, and the reinstatement of roads and verges after the repairs,” she said.

This was something also highlighted by the Department of Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Dr Jack Bloom, during a two-day strategic oversight visit to the City last week.

He called on the municipality to strengthen its response and accelerate efforts to address persistent water and sanitation challenges affecting communities across the metro.

“We need to see a stronger and more urgent response to the water and sanitation challenges facing communities in eThekwini. Where problems have been identified, there must be clear responsibility, decisive intervention and consistent follow-through,” Bloom said.

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