The DA in Msunduzi has written to the General Manager (acting),Mr Mandla Zuma requesting to meet on Wednesday, 14 February 2024, to discuss the absolute collapse of the Parks and Recreation department and request for a plan and solutions going forward.
This as there is a growing concern about resources in the department
The central parts of the municipality have no available tractors due to ”tyre punctures”, whereas the Northern area has only one functioning tractor. Edendale also has one tractor which is on the brink of breaking down.
There are approximately 20 brush cutters per depot but it is not enough to cover all wards in Msunduzi, we need at least 40 including those to be used on Sport grounds.
The ANC leadership of Msunduzi approves millions for sport clubs and fan park events but has failed to purchase tyres for the tractors or fix them.
The staff including Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) recruits are under a lot of pressure as they lack labour tools, they have to take turns for going to the field of work for weeks while others sign and remain at the Depot or at home.
There is also an issue of not having enough vehicles for workers including those from EPWP. The officials and supervisors are not given vehicles to perform their responsibilities.
As a result, we have overgrown grass in communities, Parks and in main arterial roads.
Sidewalks, traffic circles and islands have been left unmaintained for months, safety should be the first priority in the city and throughout our communities.
The ANC-run municipality has failed to manage this department. They have shown that they do not care about the wellbeing of our communities.
The DA will therefore also be running a petition through the communities to get intervention from the mid-year adjustment budget.