Region 6 not buckling under service delivery pressure – Modise

The Tshwane Deputy Mayor and MMC responsible for Region 6, Eugene Modise, emphasised that the region is not buckling under pressure, but is ‘rising to confront its challenges head-on’.

This comes amid reports that Region 6 continues to face an overwhelming number of service requests, leading to a backlog in service delivery.

Several ward councillors in Pretoria east have also voiced concerns over shortcomings in their areas.

The metro has acknowledged that the volume of service requests exceeds its current operational capacity.

However, Modise stated that the region is now the focus of a determined and co-ordinated turnaround effort under the new administration.

“As we accelerate service delivery in Region 6, we are addressing years of inherited neglect compounded by rapid urban growth, which has tested both residents and infrastructure,” Modise explained.

He announced that from August 11–15, residents in Mamelodi, Nellmapius, Eersterust, Silverton, Moreleta Park, and surrounding areas will see an intensive service delivery programme get underway.

Modise said teams will be deployed to cut grass in parks, open spaces, and along road verges to restore neglected public areas.

“Tree pruning will also be conducted to improve safety and visibility, especially around busy intersections and pedestrian pathways where overgrown branches have become hazards.”

He stated that a key focus of the blitz is stormwater maintenance and drain clearing in preparation for the spring rains.

“This crucial work aims to prevent flooding, ensure drainage systems function efficiently, and protect homes and infrastructure from water damage,” Modise added.

He stressed that this effort is not merely cosmetic but a targeted, data-driven programme designed to deliver measurable improvements for residents.

The metro previously said it has a backlog reduction plan in place, which has already seen a decrease in outstanding issues.

Meanwhile, Ward 85 councillor Jacqui Uys expressed serious concerns about significant delays in repairing water leaks and sewage problems in her ward.

She highlighted the emergence of new underground leaks, with 18 active leaks currently reported, many still unattended.

“Two leaks on Stellenberg Avenue have been unresolved since September last year, and with September approaching again, there is still no prioritisation,” Uys said.

She attributed the delays to insufficient staffing and a lack of resources within the regional teams. “The teams are not adequately capacitated, which means necessary repairs cannot be completed,” she explained.

Uys urged the metro to prioritise ratepayers by enforcing stronger management oversight to ensure service requests are properly tracked and resolved.

ALSO READ: Service delivery blitz barely scratches the surface, says ward councillors

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