After three long years of frustration, Ward 50 residents breathed a sigh of relief as the long-clogged stormwater drainage system in their community was cleared recently. The intervention came after IFP Area Leader Nalini Naidoo took up the matter and ensured that the long-standing problem was resolved within 48 hours.
One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, shared his experience. “I reached out to the local ward councillor on several occasions but never received any response. After just one call to the IFP’s Mrs Nalini Naidoo, the matter was resolved in less than two days. This is the kind of service delivery our community needs.”
For years, the drainage had been blocked by a build-up of domestic and solid waste, resulting in stormwater overflow that posed both a health hazard and an environmental concern. Residents lamented that repeated appeals for assistance went unanswered. The situation worsened during heavy rains, when the overflow created breeding grounds for mosquitoes and made certain pathways impassable.
Naidoo said the problem was not only a matter of inconvenience but a broader issue of public health and dignity for residents. “When residents reached out to me, I immediately understood the urgency. Stormwater drainage is not a luxury, it is an essential service that protects homes, families, and even livelihoods. Leaving this unattended for years was unacceptable. I made the necessary calls and coordinated with the right stakeholders to ensure that the drain was cleared as a matter of priority.”
She added: “Residents must never feel abandoned or voiceless. They deserve a government that listens and acts swiftly. I am grateful to the community for trusting me with this matter, and I assure them that the IFP will always stand by its people, no matter how small or big the issue may seem.”
Community activists and ordinary residents applauded the rapid turnaround. Together with IFP activist Rikal Govender, Naidoo personally oversaw the clearing of the drainage system, ensuring that the work was carried out thoroughly and effectively. Their visible presence on-site reassured residents that their concerns were finally being taken seriously.
Naidoo said clogged stormwater drains are not unique to Ward 50 and happen across eThekwini due to poor maintenance of public infrastructure, often worsened by illegal dumping. “Experts have pointed out that unmaintained drains accelerate the deterioration of roads and increase the risk of flooding in residential areas. This, in turn, leads to higher repair costs and greater strain on municipal budgets, problems that could be mitigated by consistent, preventative maintenance.”
She noted that the incident reflects a growing frustration among residents with slow or non-existent responses from some ward councillors. Additionally, many residents are turning to alternative leaders who demonstrate initiative and accountability, often finding quicker resolutions outside of official channels.
Residents with similar challenges regarding stormwater drainage and other service delivery issues in Ward 50 are encouraged to reach out to Naidoo directly via WhatsApp on 084 992 7013.
