Southgate residents have called on the eThekwini Municipality to assist with critical water issues following three months of recurring bursts and leaks, which have left multiple households without service.
One resident on Pinegate Place, who asked to remain anonymous, said the issue has been ongoing for at least three months. The resident said: “Despite numerous complaints, nothing has been done. We receive numerous municipal vehicles arriving to address the leaks; they inspect quickly and then depart. Their repairs are temporary as they only last for two to three days.”
The resident further commented on a section of the road currently barricaded only by sticks and tape, noting that it is especially hazardous at night. Because the obstruction is not clearly visible and is located where drivers must travel uphill on a curve to enter the road, it poses a significant safety risk to motorists.
Ward 110 PR Councillor Rowena Bosman expressed disappointment at the ongoing delays in responding to water-related complaints and the lack of reinstatement of areas after repairs in Southgate and other parts of the ward.
Bosman said: “Residents complain that water from leaks and bursts continues to run into drains, despite references being closed, sometimes without the issues ever being attended to. Recurring bursts, and in some cases potentially poor workmanship, leave residents frustrated and questioning why they pay rates, especially as these rates continue to increase without improvement in service levels. The state of infrastructure needs urgent repair rather than the city spending millions on statues.”
She further called on residents to vote wisely in the upcoming local government elections to ensure proper management, governance, and accountability within the municipality.
The eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Mandla Nsele, said that they have deployed a plumber today, Wednesday 22 April, to address the matter.
