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