eThekwini Municipality’s Plumbing Crisis: Contractors Left Unpaid Amid Water Shortages

Plumbers contracted to eThekwini Municipality have not been called out to fix leaking pipes since February 1 due to alleged budgetary constraints. The shortage of available plumbers has caused significant disruptions in water services across various suburbs in Durban.

A plumber, speaking anonymously, revealed that no category-A plumbers—those qualified to repair critical pipes—have been called to jobs since the start of the month. The city reportedly lacks the funds to pay these essential workers, leading to a backlog of unaddressed water leaks and outages. The issue has particularly affected residents in uMhlanga and La Lucia, where water supply interruptions have been reported.

Councillor Bradley Singh raised concerns about the situation, noting that several areas in Durban, including uMhlanga Ridge, have been without water for extended periods. Singh stated that there has been no explanation from the municipality regarding the depletion of the Virginia reservoir and tower, which have been critical to the water supply in these regions.

While municipal officials have acknowledged the crisis, they have also expressed concerns about the long-term use of contractors. City Manager Musa Mbhele pointed out that some contractors had been accused of subpar workmanship, leading to recurring leaks and unsafe conditions. A recent Exco meeting suggested absorbing contractors into the municipal system, though debates about cost-effectiveness and efficiency are ongoing.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com