IN an effort to curb criminal activities and promote community safety, City of uMhlathuze Mayor Mduduzi Mhlongo officially switched on street lights at Madlankala and Maholoholo outside eSikhaleni last week.
Addressing community members who converged at the Madlankala taxi rank, Mhlongo said he was delighted that the project would improve the lives of wards 12 and 14 residents.
He said the project was one of the outcomes of the IDP (Integrated Development Plan) community roadshow engagements.
‘The implementation of this project will substantially reduced road accidents and criminal activities. We are here to say, let there be light in the lives of the black community who have been living in dark for too long.
‘Criminals will now have nowhere to hide. We will also install street poles to safeguard your homes in the future,’ he said.
The mayor said the project, which is expected to be completed in four months, had to be delayed owing to criminal elements.
‘About R4-million was used for this project, but owing to street pole and cable theft, we had to spend another R227 000 to cover the damages,’ he said.
City Speaker Cllr Mfundo Mthenjana commended the communities for their patience while the project was undertaken.
‘We applaud your understanding and cooperation. We have seen people in other parts of the country destroying existing infrastructure while demanding services, but you have not. ‘Continue with that spirit and protect the infrastructure you are receiving from the municipality,’ said Mthenjana.
