MEYERTON. – The Midvaal Local Municipality has warned that it will crack down on tampering with water and electricity meters as well as illegal connections.
This follows after the municipality uncovered numerous instances of tampered water and electricity meters within its jurisdiction. According to Midvaal the investigations are part of a broader revenue protection strategy to reduce losses and reduce theft, and illicit or unauthorised consumption.
The municipality said in a statement that this concerning issue has been detected in various areas across the municipality including Vaal Marina, Eye of Africa, Sicelo, Walkerville Fruit Farms, and several other areas. “It is notable that there is no discrepancy between wards and economic sectors for this transgression,” Ald. Peter Teixeira, Executive Mayor of the Midvaal Local Municipality said in a statement.
According to Teixeira, the municipality will diligently continue with these investigations and if any parties are found guilty of tampering with their water and electricity meters, severe fines will be imposed as well as the backdating of estimated costs which would need to be paid. Should the party be a repeat offender the municipality is legally authorised to disconnect such residents from municipal services.
“We strongly encourage those who have engaged in su ch activities to voluntarily approach our offices. We assure cooperation and a more lenient approach in comparison to the consequences of discovery through our investigations. Negotiations will be facilitated to avoid the discontinuation of power electricity and water services,” Midvaal said in a statement.
The municipality says it is dedicated to implementing a robust process to eradicate illegal connections and meter tampering.
“We will ensure sound and sustainable management of our financial affairs in line with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) regulations to prevent water and electricity losses and the associated financial implications. Together, we must ensure the integrity of our utility systems and uphold accountabilities for all residents within our municipality,” Midvaal said.
The municipality urged residents to engage with them to find a workable solution instead of bypassing their water and electricity meters.