The eThekwini Municipality has allocated R2 million to address water issues in Verulam, but the local Water Crisis Committee claims the project was completed months ago, raising concerns about fund allocation transparency.

At Tuesday’s Exco meeting, it was revealed that an additional R2 million had been allocated to the water issues in Verulam and surrounding areas.

“To address persistent water challenges affecting various areas in the northern parts of the city, particularly Verulam and surrounding areas, Exco has approved the transfer of R2 million within the water and sanitation capital budget in the 2024/25 financial year.

“The funds will be transferred from the Pinkney Park project to the Hazelmere to Grange Reservoir Pipeline project. The Pinkney Park project has been delayed by the Bid Evaluation Committee due to insufficient funding in the currently approved 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years,” the city said in a statement.

It said that the Hazelmere to Grange Reservoir Pipeline project was ongoing that urgently required an additional R2 million in funding to complete the project in the current financial year.

“Work has stopped on site due to funding having been exhausted for the Hazelmere to Grange Reservoir Pipeline project. The additional allocation to complete the Hazelmere to Grange Reservoir Pipeline project will ensure much needed relief to the communities in the northern parts of the city who have been experiencing water shortages.

“The water challenges have been further worsened by the recurring flood disasters that have battered the City in recent years,” the statement read.

Roshan Lil-Ruthan, the Verulam Water Crisis Committee (VWCC) spokesperson, said had deep concern over recent reports that the city had allocated R2 million for the completion of pipe installation to deliver relief from Hazelmere Water Treatment Works to Grange Reservoir.

“This announcement has caused shock and confusion, as VWCC has monitored this project closely until its completion several months ago. To the best of our knowledge, all pipe work has already been finalised.

“We demand clarity on the intended use of these funds, as the allocation appears unjustified based on the completed status of the project. VWCC urges transparency and accountability from the eThekwini Municipality. We call upon the Integrity Unit within the municipality to urgently investigate this allocation and ensure that public funds are not misdirected or misused,” said Lil-Ruthan.

He emphasised the critical need to fast-track the installation of generators at key reservoirs in the Mountview Reservoir system, specifically Tp1 and Tp3 reservoirs.

“Ensuring consistent pumping during electricity outages or load shedding is essential to prevent interruptions to water supply, which significantly impacts the community. VWCC stands firm in its commitment to advocating for the rights of the affected communities and ensuring the responsible use of resources to address pressing issues,” added Lil-Ruthan.

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‘Confusion’ over R2 million allocated by city to address northern water crisis