The DA in Msunduzi vehemently opposes proposed tariffs to be imposed on residents which will go towards the construction of the Umkomaas dam. The National Water Department has revealed that the dam, which will be built on the border of Msunduzi will not benefit residents but instead supply water to the municipalities of eThekwini, Ilembe and Ugu.
While not opposed to its construction, we do however, take a very strong position against the proposal to have Msunduzi residents foot part of the bill. According to the department, it would foot half the bill while Msunduzi, eThekwini, Ilembe and Ugu will pay for the remaining half of the project. It is simply unfair for Msunduzi residents to have to pay tariffs towards the dam when they will not be benefitting from its supply.
The result of this is that, as of the 1st July 2024 Msunduzi ratepayers will have an added item on their water bill. It is simply unfair to expect Msunduzi residents to sponsor an 8-year project that landed on them.
It is for this reason the DA Caucus in Msunduzi will engage and mobilise the local community groups and residents to give written submissions opposing tariffs for the said dam.
The DA will use all available avenues to ensure that the residents in Msunduzi Municipality are not made to foot the bill for this project.