Tshwane to combat ‘water mafia’ wars

The Tshwane metro has been experiencing a severe water crisis exacerbated by vandalism and tampering with vital municipal water infrastructure in recent months.

The situation has recently worsened as infrastructure is crippled by the activities of a “water tanker mafia”.

According to the MMC for Utilities Themba Fosi, the water challenges in Tshwane have been exacerbated by the “water tanker mafia” and have heightened the need for comprehensive solutions.

Fosi said such solutions would entail security upgrades, such as the adoption of technologies to detect and minimise criminal activities as well as adequate fencing.

He said the metro was currently under siege as water valves and infrastructure had been targeted by vandals.

https://x.com/CityTshwane/status/1725416753814020120

He said the opportunistic vandals target valves because they are often located in spots that are easy to access.

“This accessibility also makes them vulnerable to tampering, unauthorised access, and targets for vandalism, theft, or sabotage.”

Fosi said while some reservoirs in the city had static security and watchmen, most of the water valves were enclosed in concrete manholes.

He said the metro would continue to take serious action against tampering, sabotage, and illegal connections to ensure that its water infrastructure is secured and safeguarded.

“We are collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to mitigate the risks associated with tampering with the city’s infrastructure and enhance the reliability of our water supply system.”

He said further security upgrades, such as the adoption of technologies and providing adequate fencing, are in motion to detect and minimise criminal activities.

Tshwane has adopted a multi-faceted approach to address these challenges, and the key measures include:

– Tamper-resistant design: Implementing secure enclosures and using tamper-resistant materials to make unauthorised access more difficult.

– Physical barriers and locks: Installing robust barriers and high-security locks to reduce the risk of tampering.

– Regular inspections and maintenance: Conducting frequent inspections to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

– Public awareness campaigns: Engaging with the community to raise awareness about the importance of reporting suspicious activities.

– Law enforcement collaboration: Partnering with the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) and other security agencies to investigate incidents and implement preventive measures.

– Investigation and prosecution: Taking legal action against individuals caught tampering with infrastructure to deter future incidents.

Fosi said nearly a quarter of the budget for bulk water infrastructure is spent on repairs related to theft and vandalism.

He added that vandalism is reported frequently, with most incidents occurring at bulk water infrastructure sites, particularly reservoirs and water pump stations.

“The broader water supply crisis in Tshwane, exacerbated by infrastructure challenges and increased demand, has led to the use of water tankers, costing the city an estimated R98-million annually.

The crisis is worsened by questionable invoicing from water tanker operators and reports of shady dealings at reservoirs and fire hydrants.”

During the 2023 budget speech, the metro allocated R450-million over three years to upgrade the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Plant, among other infrastructure improvements, to address these pressing challenges.

Tshwane and the National Department of Water and Sanitation have signed an agreement to collaborate on addressing these challenges, focusing on infrastructure planning, resource management, and improving municipal skills.

Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious or unauthorised utility connections to 012 358 7095/7096.

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