Tshwane water leak backlog blamed for delayed response times
The metro is currently experiencing a backlog of 483 water leaks, which is impacting response times, according to metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo.
East residents are frustrated with the Tshwane metro’s delayed response to water leaks, with some waiting up to two months for repairs.
According to Ward Councillor Jacqui Uys, a leak in the road surface at the corner of Uitspan Road and Rossouw Street in The Willows was only fixed three weeks ago, after being reported in December.
“The leaks flood properties and cause walls to collapse,” Uys said.
Uys added that another leak in Verkenner Road was also only fixed three weeks later when it was reported at the beginning of December.
She said a leak in Oulandsloop Street took eight days to repair.
“On average, it takes about four days for a water meter to be fixed, but it is unacceptable that water leaks take so long and without any communication on what the delays and plans are,” Uys said.
Uys said residents in Jukskei Avenue had no water for 10 days because of leaks.
She added that more leaks were reported last year but have not yet been repaired.
Tshwane spokesperson Lindela Mashigo attributed the delayed response times to a high volume of service requests, leading to backlogs and delays.
“Our standard response time to all water-related service requests is 48 hours,” Mashigo said.
However, Mashigo acknowledged that the metro currently has a backlog of 483 water leaks, which is impacting response times.
He said the metro has temporarily employed artisans and plumbers to boost capacity.
Mashigo added that there are also special teams dedicated to working in areas with high backlogs.
“The metro receives approximately 3 000 [reports of] water leaks per month, with around 600 of those in Region 6,” he said.
“We have 635 water meter leaks outstanding in Region 6.”
He encouraged residents who experienced damage to their properties due to water leaks to claim damages through the city’s Legal Department at claims@tshwane.gov.za.
Locals are encouraged to report water leaks to the metro by calling 012 358 9999 or emailing waterleaks@tshwane.gov.za.
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