The DA in eThekwini has written to the Head of Water and Sanitation, Mr. Ednick Msweli, demanding a comprehensive report on an incident of contamination of water system supply in Musgrave and Overport. The contamination was caused by a burst pipe on 25 April 2025 that allowed raw sewage to enter the drinking water system.
Despite early warnings from concerned residents, the municipality only issued a formal Boil Water Alert on 1 May, a full week later, putting the health of thousands at serious risk. The DA was on-site the day after the incident and discovered that no emergency protocols had been enacted, valves remained open, the excavation site was inaccessible due to lack of equipment, and no interdepartmental cooperation was in place.
Tests have since confirmed the presence of E. coli in the water supply.
In response, the DA has is demanding a comprehensive report outlining:
– A full timeline of municipal actions.
-Reasons for the failure to act promptly.
-Why the public was not warned sooner.
-Preventative measures to avoid future incidents.
This crisis further revealed municipal neglect, including an uncleared stormwater drain blocked by rubble from the pipe burst. Once again, the DA had to intervene to get the appropriate response.
The DA commends the residents of Musgrave and Overport for their swift action and determination to hold the City accountable. We remain committed to ensuring eThekwini residents receive safe, reliable, and transparent service delivery.