THE provision of water and electricity headed the agenda during the State of the City address.
Topping his address, uMhlathuze Mayor Cllr Mduduzi Mhlongo, said to prevent pipe bursts which frequently disrupt water supply, 94.35km of new pipes valued at R94-million have been installed.
Residents were warned to use water sparingly due to drought facing the City and province.
To tackle the water crisis the City is implementing a two-year tender for storm water cleaning and maintenance.
The project will create 120 job opportunities and empower small contractors.
‘We no longer extract water from Lake Mzingazi, because the level has dropped drastically and the City is forced to purchase water uMhlathuze Water at a higher cost,’ said Mhlongo.
The energy crisis was also highlighted as a major challenge.
R135-million has been invested to upgrade new and existing electricity infrastructure, with a new power plant on the cards.
HIV/Aids, unemployment, maintenance of roads and the upgrade of community facilities were also on the list.
R4-million has been budgeted for the expansion of Ngwelezane Hall and another R4-million to revamp the Port Durnford Hall.
Housing
Residents will also benefit from the R1.2-million construction of pedestrian bridges in wards 14, 15, 18 and 22.
To provide people with decent homes, 300 families have been permanently relocated from eSikhaleni hostels to Dumisani Makhaye.
A new contract will be awarded to undertake the refurbishment of the remaining hostel blocks in the J1 and H12 sections.
‘The City has adopted the Integrated Development Plan which include resolutions to the energy challenges, revitalising agriculture, encouraging private sector investment and unlocking the potential of small, medium and micro businesses, townships and rural enterprises.
‘We have set goals for good governance, sustainable infrastructure and service delivery, social and economic development and sound financial management,’ the Mayor said.
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