THE eThekwini Municipality has approved an estimated R791m for three priority interventions aimed at addressing ageing and underperforming wastewater infrastructure across the city.

Mayor Cyril Xaba announced the decision during the post-council media briefing at the executive committee (Exco) boardroom.

Xaba said the interventions would be implemented by uMngeni-uThukela Water under the City’s existing agreement with the water utility.

Also read: Sewage crisis: Wentworth residents battle week-long sewage stench

The council also approved the reprioritisation of R157m within the 2026/27 budget to complete storm-damaged sewer-repair projects that are already underway.

He said the projects cover several areas across eThekwini, including Montclair.

The funding is intended to ensure that existing sewer-repair projects affected by storm damage are completed, while the three priority interventions will address broader challenges linked to ageing and underperforming wastewater infrastructure.

The inclusion of Montclair among the areas earmarked for sewer repairs is particularly relevant to residents concerned about the condition of local infrastructure and the impact of sewer-related problems on their communities.

Also read: Persistent sewage stink frustrates Montclair residents

The municipality’s decision comes as cities face growing pressure to maintain and upgrade wastewater systems to ensure efficient service delivery and limit the environmental and public health risks associated with sewage leaks and overflows.

The use of uMngeni-uThukela Water to implement the three interventions forms part of the City’s existing agreement with the utility, which will oversee the implementation of the approved projects.

The completion of the storm-damaged sewer-repair projects will be closely watched by affected communities as the municipality seeks to improve the reliability of its wastewater infrastructure.

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