Residents of Signal Hill in Newcastle have been without water for nearly a week after thieves vandalised the Milkyway pump station. The Newcastle Municipality has vowed to take decisive action against the perpetrators.
Newcastle Municipality spokesperson Mthandeni Myende said the municipality is “grappling with significant challenges following the theft of electrical supply cables at the Milkyway pump station, contributing to recent water supply interruptions to western region residents.”
The situation has been exacerbated by a burst pipe supplying water to the Uranus pump station. In a further blow, the wastewater treatment works has also been targeted, with electrical supply cables and pumps stolen, severely impairing operations. Acts of vandalism at sewer pump stations have seen critical electrical connections controlling pumps stolen, undermining effective sewage management.
Myende stated: “The Newcastle Municipality unequivocally condemns these egregious acts of theft and vandalism. We issue a grave warning to any individuals contemplating or involved in such criminal activities; culprits will face the full and unmitigated wrath of law enforcement. The municipality will pursue maximum prosecution under applicable laws for acts of infrastructure theft and vandalism.”
He explained that such criminal acts jeopardise essential services, endanger public health, and demonstrate a blatant disregard for community wellbeing. Moreover, they result in substantial financial losses, diverting critical funds from other vital services or developmental projects. The continuous need to repair stolen or damaged infrastructure strains municipal resources, impacting its capacity to expand or improve service delivery.
Chairperson of Town Planning and Development, Councillor Bertie Meiring, said the consequences extend beyond financial losses. He warned: “Damage to the Milkyway Pump Station and similar infrastructure can lead to water pressure build-up, potentially causing pipes to burst and leaving communities without water while repairs are undertaken.” He urged residents to assist in protecting critical infrastructure by reporting any suspicious activity around mini-substations and pump stations.
This is not an isolated incident. On 11 September, the municipality reported that vandals targeted a mini-substation on Murchison Street, causing widespread power outages across central Newcastle and surrounding areas.
In a statement at the time, the municipality said it was “experiencing a power outage due to a vandalised mini-substation on Murchison Street.” The substation failure impacted parts of Newcastle Central, including Scott Street, Murchison Street, and other surrounding areas. Municipal electricians isolated the damaged substation and undertook interim measures to supply power to affected consumers.
Despite the prompt municipal response, residents were deprived of electricity for a time due to the vandalism.
Myende added: “The Municipality will not tolerate interference with critical municipal infrastructure and will collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies to identify, apprehend, and ensure stringent legal consequences for perpetrators. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities or information pertaining to infrastructure vandalism or theft to municipal authorities or law enforcement immediately. Collective vigilance and cooperation are imperative to safeguarding community assets and services.”
The Newcastle Municipality reaffirmed its commitment to delivering essential services and protecting infrastructure, underscoring the importance of community partnership in combating these crimes.
Residents can report water and sewer-related complaints to 087 740 8839. Electrical complaints can be reported to 034 328 4700 during office hours, or to 079 542 8228 after hours.
