Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has blamed sabotage for water problems being experienced in parts of the Metro this weekend.
In a statement today, Executive Mayor Athol Tollip, said that “we have managed to identify a service provider that is now sending several water tankers to areas of the Metro without water.
“Sadly, our own municipal staff are refusing to work on weekends, leaving residents high and dry. We will not be held ransom by people who won’t work productively during ordinary work hours but then want double pay on weekends,” he said.
Trollip said this situation could also be compounded by intentional sabotage which has not been ruled out but will be thoroughly investigated.
“A new overtime policy which seeks to prevent future Auditor General findings in this regard, has resulted in some officials refusing to work beyond regular business hours.”
“The policy allows for overtime for artisans who earn above the basic condition of employment threshold (approximately R206 000), remunerated at the normal rate of pay.
All other employees under the threshold still get full statutory overtime benefits.”
Trollip said some staff are asking to be paid more than the normal rate of pay for any overtime worked.
“The Metro simply can't afford that and the Auditor General has already identified this is an issue,” he said.
Meanwhile, Nelson Mandela Bay said that after ongoing infrastructure breakdown assessments, “a closed valve has been discovered for the Govan Mbeki Supply. “
‘This is alarming and heightens the suspicion of sabotage. The valve has been turned back on and water supply to Govan Mbeki has been restored”
Kwazakhele and New Brighton still without water.
Nelson Mandela Bay said that water tankers have started arriving at various locations.
Water tank locations
1.Nangoza Njebe hall
( Centenary)
2.Embizweni square
3.Dora Nginza hospital car entrance gate
4.Kwazakele police station
5.Engene garage Daku.
6. New Brighton Police Station
