VANDERBIJLPARK – The new man in charge of infrastructure at Emfuleni Local Municipality wasted no time getting down to business after being taken on a tour of key service delivery projects by Executive Mayor Hassan Mako.

Just weeks after taking office, the municipality’s new MMC for Infrastructure Planning and Development (IPD), Rowan Lewaak, joined the mayor on July 8 for an oversight visit to major infrastructure projects in Tshepiso/Sharpeville and Bophelong.

The visit gave Lewaak a closer look at the municipality’s ongoing developments, helping him get up to speed on projects under his new portfolio.

The first stop was the Tshepiso/Sharpeville Bulk Water Pipeline Project, which is expected to ease persistent water shortages and low water pressure affecting residents in the two townships.

Accompanied by municipal engineers and the IPD team, the delegation inspected construction progress and received updates on the project’s implementation.

The team then travelled to Bophelong Extension to assess work on the Dr Thomas Nkobi Road Construction Project.

Although the road upgrade is slightly behind schedule, the mayor praised the quality of work being carried out.

“The IPD team is doing excellent work,” Mako said, applauding engineers and construction workers for their commitment despite the challenges associated with large infrastructure projects.

Mako stressed that regular oversight visits are essential to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to the required standards.

He said the inspections reflect his administration’s commitment to a “business unusual” approach aimed at accelerating service delivery and improving infrastructure across Emfuleni.

The municipality believes the visits mark the beginning of stronger oversight and greater accountability as the new Mayoral Committee settles into office.