eThekwini allocates R40 million to tackle leaking pipelines and improve water infrastructure
The eThekwini Municipality has allocated R40 million to fix 22 pipelines that experienced frequent bursts.
Municipal councillors were informed at a council meeting on Tuesday about the allocation of funds by the Water and Sanitation Directorate to these capital projects.
The municipality stated that the relays and extensions block sum water capital budget was approved as part of the overall 2025/26 budget by the council.
Nothando Mchunu, IFP councillor, hoped that the money allocated to pipe repairs would put an end to the problem of recurring leaks on a road. Mchunu said the communities were left frustrated and often blamed the contractors.
The worst areas with leaking water pipes in the municipality and how much it will cost to fix in the 2025/26 financial year are:
Worst Areas WARD Cost to repair
- Peter Mokaba Road (Ridge Road) Ward 27/31 R5 million
- Lower Molweni Ward 9 R4 million
- Nyokeni Booster Main Ward 60 R4 million
- Belvedere Ward 58/61 R3 million
- Valley View Road Ward 65 R3 million
- Cato Manor/Chesterville Wiggins Ward 24 R3 million
Other areas with frequent bursts:
- Coleus Road Ward 71 R400,000
- Huntley Road Ward 63/65 R2 million
- Tongaat LMA Ward 58 R1 million
- Inchanga Monteseel Ward 4 R2 million
- Duffs Road Ward 39 R1.8 million
- Bowker Rd Ward 63 R200,000
- Waterkant Road Ward 12 R2 million
- Umbilo Trunk Main Ward 65 R500,000
- Mamba Ridge Ward 37 R200,000
- Maasbanker Ave Ward 48 R2 million
- Mwelase Road, Chesterville Ward 24/29 R200,000
- Cornubia/Blackburn Ward 35 R250,000
- Biggarsberg Street Ward 32 R500,000
- Grange to Mt View Reservoir Ward 106 R3 million
- Burlington Greenfields Ext Ward 65 R1.5 million
- Powerline Street /105652 Street Ward 70 R450,000
Remona McKenzie, eThekwini Ward 31 councillor, is concerned about the burst pipes along Peter Mokaba Road (Ridge Road), which have impacted on residents’ quality of life, disrupted businesses, left unsurfaced roads compromising road safety, and compromised service delivery.
“The frequent bursts often occurring in the same location have not only disrupted water supply but have also repeatedly damaged the road surface and compromised the structural integrity of the roadway. These recurring failures have placed a strain on municipal resources and caused frustration for residents and commuters alike,” she said.
McKenzie added that she is engaging with the relevant departments to obtain updated statistics on the number of repairs conducted along this stretch.
She said this data will help assess the impact of this investment and ensure transparency and accountability.
“This funding marks a critical step forward, but we must continue to push for long-term solutions that include preventative maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, and improved oversight. I remain committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure reliable services and a safer environment for our community,” she said.
zainul.dawood@inl.co.za