Tshwane’s budget woes hold up Eldoraigne pipeline project

The Eldoraigne Water Pipeline Replacement Project, which was scheduled to begin at the beginning of the year, has been delayed due to the metro’s budget constraints.

This project was set to commence on January 13 and was expected to resolve long-standing water supply issues and frequent leaks in Eldoraigne by replacing main feeder pipes that have deteriorated over time, according to metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo.

Rekord previously reported that in December 2024, Mashigo anticipated that the project would be completed by March 19.

“The network pipes planned for replacement include about 271m on Kern Street and 629m on Colin Road,” he stated at that time.

However, Mashigo recently confirmed that the project has not yet started as anticipated.

“The project has not yet commenced due to budget constraints; however, it is listed in the budget adjustment awaiting approval,” he said.

With the current hold-up, the timeline for the project has shifted.

Mashigo indicated that, if all goes well, the project is now expected to commence in the second week of April.

“Three campsite locations have already been identified for this project, and the request and approval process for these sites is underway.”

This update comes at a time when residents in the area continue to experience water leaks.

Monzenique van Wyk, a resident of Eldoraigne Ext 3, expressed her frustration regarding the persistent water leaks in her neighbourhood.

“I often see water leaking in the same area for days, and I wonder why these issues are not addressed promptly,” she said.

She said it’s disheartening to witness these situations, especially when some of the residents try to carefully manage and use water to reduce unnecessary usage and waste.

Another resident Ashley Smith shared her optimism about the project.

“I truly believe that this initiative will significantly help residents in the area,” she said.

“Not only will replacing the old pipes reduce the frequency of leaks, but it will also improve the overall water quality we receive.”

Smith shared how many families in the area have been struggling with water pressure issues and inconsistent supply due to the ageing infrastructure.

“With new pipes in place, we can look forward to a more reliable and cleaner water supply.”

Ward 69 Councillor Cindy Billson recently voiced her frustration regarding the frequent water leaks in Eldoraigne and other areas that remain unaddressed for extended periods.

“In Ward 70, there are leaks reported over two weeks ago that remain unaddressed, while in my ward, some issues have persisted for over two months,” she stated.

Billson mentioned specific instances of delayed repairs, including a water leak on Ireland Avenue in Eldoraigne, which was reported on January 30 but was only addressed in mid-March.

“Another leaking water meter reported in January was finally fixed at the beginning of March,” she noted.

She added that there is still an unattended leaking water meter in Kort Street in Eldoraigne that was reported in January.

“Even when some of the water leaks do get fixed, the reinstatement of the pavement or road remains a problem,” she said.

Billson highlighted another instance from December last year, where a significant leak was fixed near Eldoraigne High School, yet the road was never reinstated, leaving the area unsafe for residents and motorists.

When the project first came to light, Billson expressed her optimism. She stated that fixing the old pipes means fewer burst pipes and leaks, leading to a more reliable water supply.

“New pipes mean cleaner, safer water without worries about contamination from rusty old infrastructure,” she added.

She also emphasised the environmental and economic advantages of the project, stating that the new water pipes will ensure that the community loses significantly less water to leaks.

“This is a big win in our water-scarce country. Fewer repairs mean the city can save money and focus on other upgrades,” she explained.

Billson noted that the community has long suffered from the impact of outdated water systems, which have led to frequent water cuts and disruptions.

“Old, unreliable pipes mean residents often face water cuts, which is frustrating and inconvenient,” she added.

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