DURBAN – eThekwini mayor Mxolisi Kaunda has unveiled multimillion rand infrastructure projects that will benefit communities in oThongathi and surrounding areas with jobs, while addressing water and electricity challenges.
Kaunda introduced the contractor to the community, who will undertake the expansion of the Mona Water Reservoir, the electrification of the Mona Informal Settlement and Sunhill Housing Development.
The projects will be implemented by the city this year.
Kaunda said the municipality had identified the need to increase the storage at the existing Emona Reservoir within its bulk reservoir supply network to address water challenges in oThongathi, particularly in wards 61 and 62.
“Today I have introduced the contractor that will commence work on October 1 for the construction of an additional reinforced concrete water storage reservoir to a tune of R35 million.
“The expansion will ensure that the water reservoir has 48 hours of water storage catering for future increased demands. This includes the proposed Sunhill Housing Development,” he said.
He said with the expansion of the eMona Water Reservoir, 50 percent of local labour would be employed.
He added that Community Participation Goal (CPG) contributors,, who were local suppliers or contractors, would receive a letter of completion which they can use to secure work for future projects.
Kaunda also introduced a contractor that would commence with the electrification project of the Mona Informal Settlement. The project will cost R2m.
He said the electrification project was part of the municipality’s efforts to fast track the delivery of interim services such as electricity in informal settlements.
The mayor also yesterday opened the oThongathi Human Capital Centre of Excellence equipped with computers and free wi-fi .
“Our aim is to have Human Capital Centres of Excellence across the municipality. These centres are in line with the concept of smart cities. There are currently seven centres that are open to the public and municipal staff Monday to Friday between 7.30am and 3.30pm,” said Kaunda.
THE MERCURY