DEAR Editor:
Many residents in various suburbs of Umkomaas have been up in arms against the recent spate of water and electricity disruptions and I have been inundated with various complaints during this crisis. Residents say they are fed-up with the ongoing water and electricity outages in the area, including Craigieburn, Roseneath, New Haven, Sun Park, Malundi Township and Willowglen.
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Both the water and electricity shortages were alleged to be attributed to cable theft, which result in the motors and pumps breaking down – low water reservoir levels and load-shedding. I have spoken to Colonel Qinisela Mabida, head of Umkomaas Saps to intervene in the matter and engage with communities responsible for illegal connection and prosecute the culprits.
I am mindful of the sterling work done by some members of the Craigieburn Neighbourhood Watch for their surveillance and constant patrol in the area to maintain safety and security for its residents and playing a supportive role towards Umkomaas Saps.
I encourage that similar initiative be undertaken in communities of Willowglen, Sun Park and New Haven among other neighbouring areas. The community is the eyes and ears of the police and it is only by working together that we can make a difference in our communities.
During the water disruptions, several angry residents had alleged that water tanks dispatched in the areas to supply water for the local community were diverted to selected communities. In one instance a family residing in Lotus Road, Roseneath, was so desperate that they had to fetch water from the nearby stream. How safe is this water? It is highly questionable.
The complaint has been lodged to both the head of the water department and the speaker of Ethekweni Municipality to intervene in the matter and take appropriate action.
Additional water tanks had been requested from the water supply department to residents as far as Willowglen and Amasalongo area so they have a fair distribution of water.
There was also complaints from business houses with regards to water tanks not servicing their sector. Their plight was also highlighted and the relevant department was urged to ensure they are also being taken care off during this crisis.
I am in the process of engaging DA members of parliament about the plight of Umkomaas and the ongoing disruption of water and electricity, as well as to highlight same in parliament for appropriate action by government.
COUNCILLOR BOB DANIEL
Ward 99, PR-Umkomaas
** Editor’s note: Umdoni Municipality was approached for comment but none had been received at the time of going to press.
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