During the recent council meeting, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in uMgungundlovu voted against ludicrous water increases citing concerns with poor infrastructure, failing management and already burdened residents.
UMngeni-uThukela Water (who manage the wastewater treatment works on behalf of uMgungundlovu) has implemented a 13% contract price increase, with a further 13% bulk water tariff increase set to take effect on 1 July.
This is despite the Howick Wastewater Treatment Works having scored less than 30%, reflecting severe dysfunction that threatens public health, the environment, and water security and the district regressing from 76% score in 2013 to 57%.
Unfortunately, The DA did not have the numbers to overturn the decision.
We are further deeply concerned by the latest Green Drop results, which highlight serious failures in wastewater treatment across the district.
Residents cannot be expected to pay more while services continue to fail. This situation underscores the importance of voting responsibly, stronger support for the DA will ensure greater accountability and the ability to block unjustified increases.
The DA calls for urgent intervention, infrastructure investment, and full transparency from those responsible.
We will continue to stand with residents in fighting for reliable and affordable water and sanitation services.