A Phoenix resident has reached boiling point over a major pipe burst where water continues to flow unabated, despite him reporting the leak to the eThekwini Municipality, over a month ago.
Khalik Mohammed of Islen Flats in Northcroft said the entire area, where the pipe burst is, has been turned into a wetland due to the delayed response in getting the pipe repaired. He said: “After reporting the leak to the municipality, over a month ago, nothing has been done. At a time when every drop of water should be saved, this type of water loss is gross negligence and does not auger well for the City and the Department of Water and Sanitation. Thousands of litres of water are going to waste.”
He added: “It is also very upsetting when some councillors in our community do not respond or assist residents in addressing these matters. Their phones are either off, they do not have offices or respond to my distress call very arrogantly. I have contacted the DLC leader Patrick Pillay who responded immediately to this matter by visiting our property and making representations on our behalf to the municipality.”
DLC leader Councillor Patrick Pillay slammed the municipality for dragging its feet when it comes to repairing water leaks reported by residents. He said: “It is unacceptable for the municipality to procrastinate in repairing a major burst water main line that has resulted in huge water loss. The City has the necessary resources and tools to detect water leaks and faults without any problems. It is rather unfortunate for Mr Mohammed and the other residents to be inconvenienced in this manner. Ratepayers have a right to effective service delivery and nothing less. Metro needs to get its house in order and service our community.”
“I’m making strong representations to the City Manager on this matter and many other unattended water leaks. We cannot allow these major water losses to continue. Heads must roll and lazy officials must be disciplined accordingly,” said Cllr Pillay.
