The eThekwini Municipality has responded to the cries of Crossmoor residents after their road was damaged following the installation of network fibre cables in the area.
As previously reported in the Chatsworth Tabloid on 21 September, the team had cracked an underground water pipe which ultimately caused it to burst, under-washing the road. Rishi Chuttergoon, a resident of Dandelion Road, said the metro’s Water Department did come through and close off the valve with repairs done, but the road was not properly covered and sealed. “Due to the pressure of motorists frequenting the road, it created a crater of sorts and while residents have tried to cover it up with sand from the corners of the road, it is still not safe.”
Msawakhe Mayisela, spokesperson for the eThekwini Municipality, said that at the time, they had been in contact with the contractor. “We have been in contact with the contractor and as far as we are aware, they have started reinstating the road. We have sent a team to assess the situation and, if need be, we will address the issue with the concerned parties,” he said. Area Manager of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Pastor Selvan Govender, said the municipality had timeously paid heed to their calls for help and the damage had since been repaired. He said: “We want to thank the eThekwini Municipality for sorting out the damage timeously and effectively. The damage was a major hazard to residents and road users and we are grateful that they heard our cries for help.”
Mayisela reminded residents that their Roads and Stormwater Maintenance Department has a dedicated Clerk of Works who monitors these contractors and ensures compliance out on site. “They are the first point of contact in the event of any damages or non-compliance. They are also entitled to stop work in case of major transgression. We urge residents who would like to report or find out more information about the fibre installations in the area to call Roads and Stormwater Maintenance on 031-322-7241. All damages should be reported to this number as well so that the offending parties can be dealt with. We have received some complaints from residents, and these are always attended to with speed,” he said.
