Vandalism delays repairs at Extension 15 water reservoir in eMbalenhle
Ext 15 remains one of the hardest-hit communities in eMbalenhle when it comes to water supply. Even when the reservoir is functional, residents often experience low pressure or dry taps.
Vandalism hampered the Govan Mbeki Municipality’s (GMM) efforts to repair the damaged floating roof at the Ext 15 water reservoir in eMbalenhle. The municipality appointed a contractor to replace the roof, and work has already begun.
However, the project is now facing challenges after vandals cut the newly installed ground cover while it was still being completed.
This follows a municipal notice issued in February, which alerted residents to a water supply interruption caused by contamination linked to the damaged floating roof. At the time, the municipality assured the public that it was seeking a qualified service provider to replace the faulty structure.
The Ext 15 reservoir has a history of water quality concerns. In 2019, the municipality disconnected it after residents reported worms and algae from their taps.
Ext 15 remains one of the hardest-hit communities in eMbalenhle when it comes to water supply. Even when the reservoir is functional, residents often experience low pressure or dry taps. Now, some residents fear that the vandalism will prolong their water shortages.
“We were relieved when the contractor began working, but now we are disappointed because of what we were told happened.
“This will delay our access to water because the municipality currently supplies water through a temporary bypass pipe. During the day, our taps are dry, so we have to get up during the night to get water,” said Vusi Jali, a community member.
Other residents blame the contractor for negligence, arguing that the site should have been properly secured.
“The contractor should have arranged 24-hour security before starting the work. They leave the site unattended after working hours.
That’s negligence. The municipality also needs to take responsibility instead of shifting blame to the community.
“Residents can still protect the infrastructure that serves us, but not a construction site – that’s the contractor’s duty,” said John Ndlovu, a community member.
Executive mayor Nhlakanipho Zuma, visited the reservoir on October 8, and condemned the vandalism, saying it severely hampers service delivery and threatens residents’ access to water.
“Vandalism of municipal infrastructure is a crime and costs ratepayers money.
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“The perpetrators must realise they are not just damaging property; they are infringing on their families’ and neighbours’ right to clean and safe drinking water,” said Zuma.
He said water had been drained from the reservoir as part of the ongoing repair project and warned that offenders would face prosecution.
Zuma urged the public to report anyone tampering with or stealing municipal property by contacting the GMM call centre at 0800 6000 01/2/4 or via WhatsApp at 083 790 0659.
“If community members can safely take pictures of the culprits in the act, it will help us a lot,” said Zuma.
